§ 5. Mr. Hiltonasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many pig herds were slaughtered as a result of swine fever during the past six months; how many pigs were involved; how much was paid in compensation; and what percentage of these herds had been vaccinated.
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsSince the introduction of the swine fever slaughter policy on 11th March this year 510 herds, comprising some 94,500 pigs, had, by the end of April, been slaughtered on account of the disease; compensation is estimated 4 at £1,180,000. Seven of the herds were registered vaccinated herds; other herds contained vaccinated pigs in varying numbers but detailed information about these is not available.
Small numbers of pigs have also been slaughtered, both before and after the change in policy, to assist in the diagnosis of the disease; 180 pigs have been slaughtered for this purpose during the past six months at a cost in compensation of approximately £1,000.
§ Mr. HiltonWill the Parliamentary Secretary agree that, in some areas at least, swine fever has become a really serious problem? Is he aware that, because of restrictions, the Norwich cattle market is experiencing serious difficulties as a result of swine fever? Should not a great deal of money be devoted to research into the cause of this disease, because opinion on whether to vaccinate or not to vaccinate appears to be divided? Will the hon. Gentleman pay more attention to this and give farmers a definite opinion on whether they should or should not vaccinate?
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsI accept what the hon. Gentleman says about the seriousness of the disease. The slaughter policy was brought in to try to eradicate it. I am sure that the hon. Gentleman will agree that this is the right policy to pursue. We will be reviewing the question of vaccination in the light of our experience in the coming months.