§ 6. Mr. Beithasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will institute an investigation into the reasons for the lack of success of the brucellosis eradication scheme in Northumberland.
§ Mr. MoyleNo, Sir. The factors are well known. Northumberland has a heavy weight of infection and some local husbandry practices make eradication difficult. Advisory effort by the Ministry is limited by the veterinary manpower available.
§ Mr. BeithDoes the hon. Gentleman realise that there is a deep concern about the likelihood of the scheme collapsing because the figures which his hon. Friend produced in Written Answers show that the rate of withdrawal and breakdown is double the national average? What action does the hon. Gentleman propose to take to deal with the shortage of vets to which he has referred?
§ Mr. MoyleI am aware of the concern in the area. We are applying the normal Ministry practices, and there is the incentive scheme to produce clean herds. We are aware of the shortage of veterinary manpower, and that the situation is causing some concern.
Mr. W. E. GarrettIs my hon. Friend aware that part of the trouble in Northumberland lies with the farmers themselves, because they are reluctant to participate in a voluntary scheme for the eradication of brucellosis? It has been very disappointing indeed.
§ Mr. MoyleYes, I am well aware that husbandry practices in the area make it very difficult for the voluntary scheme to operate. We are doing our best to encourage farmers to take part in it.
§ Mr. WigginOn the point made by the Minister about the State Veterinary Service, can he say when, if at all, the Government will make an announcement about this matter, and whether he will consider employing private veterinary surgeons to assist, in view of this shortage of manpower?
§ Mr. MoyleWe hope to maintain the State Veterinary Service at its established strength. Unfortunately, I am unable to give a date when we might be expected to make an announcement.