Brucellosis-free Breeding Cattle

HC Deb 17 November 1970 vol 806 cc1023-4

15. Mr. Farr

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is aware of the reservoir of brucellosis-free breeding cattle which exists in the Republic of Eire; and if he will seek to use this supply to speed up eradication here.

Mr. Anthony Stodart

Yes. We have just made special arrangements to enable accredited animals from brucellosis-free counties in the Irish Republic to be imported without special isolation and subject only to pre-export test and normal veterinary safeguards in transit.

Mr. Farr

In view of the valuable reservoir of brucellosis-free breeding cattle which exists in the Republic, may I take this opportunity to thank my hon. Friend for that sensible arrangement which he has made?

Mr. Stodart

I thank my hon. Friend for making so kind a suggestion to me. Although the contribution from the Irish Republic may not be very large, it could be extremely useful.