HC Deb 10 December 1969 vol 793 cc426-7
23. Mr. Dalyell

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will set out details of his plans to set up a permanent monitoring apparatus to check the prevalence of antibiotic resistance in animals.

Mr. Cledwyn Hughes

The Swann Committee recommended the establishment of facilities for the surveillance of the bacteria of animals, animal products and man, including their antibiotic resistance. This is one of the committee's longer-term recommendations, which we are considering in consultation with interested organisations.

Mr. Dalyell

What consultations are taking place?

Mr. Hughes

Extensive consultation is necessary among the Government Departments concerned, with organisations such as the Agricultural and Medical Research Councils, the Public Health Laboratory Service and professional organisations.

Mr. Stodart

Has the right hon. Gentleman made any estimate of the cost of these two proposals, as his hon. Friend appears to be so sensitive about costs?

Mr. Hughes

We are at an early stage of the consultations. As always, we shall be careful about costs.