HC Deb 05 August 1976 vol 916 cc2113-4
17. Mr. Torney

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied, from recent contact with local authorities about contingency plans in the event of an outbreak of rabies, that they have taken sufficient account of his detailed guidance.

Mr. Strang

Although the guidelines were issued as recently as 17th June, the reports reaching me indicate that local authorities are actively engaged in preparing their detailed contingency plans to suit local circumstances.

Mr. Torney

In view of the serious situation in regard to rabies, does my hon. Friend believe that in view of the cuts in local expenditure these matters can safely be left to local authorities? Does he not agree that it would be a much better idea if the Minister of Agriculture were to raise at Cabinet level the question of co-ordinating the subject of rabies and the control of stray dogs, because at present these matters fall within the discretion of four separate Departments? Does he not agree that this situation cannot be allowed to continue?

Mr. Strang

I am happy to inform my hon. Friend that the Government take a very close interest in this subject. If there were to be a rabies outbreak, the Minister of Agriculture would have overall control. On the subject of stray dogs, I do not think that there is any alternative to leaving the responsibility in the hands of local authorities.

Mr. Dalyell

Are the Government sure that precautions are as alert at the less likely ports, such as Grangemouth and Leith, as they are at Channel ports?

Mr. Strang

We make every effort to see that all ports are on the alert. Customs officers have been well briefed on this important issue. There is no doubt about the high level of public awareness on this subject throughout the country. There is great determination to keep rabies out.

Ms. Colquhoun

Does my hon. Friend accept that although the Government are taking a great interest in this matter many vets are of the opinion that they are not taking the proper action? Does he further accept that the advice he is receiving from specialist advisers is not necessarily the advice which he would receive from vets, who are terrified of an outbreak of rabies and are certain that if it should occur the Government will be in serious difficulties?

Mr. Strang

I cannot accept that many vets are unhappy about our policy, although I dare say that my hon. Friend may have met one or two of them. The British Veterinary Association, the Royal College of Surgeons and the World Health Organisation are all supporting our policy in this respect.

Dr. Glyn

Is the hon. Gentleman satisfied that his Department and the medical authorities are working sufficiently closely together? There are two sides to this matter—stopping the disease and catching the animals, and curing the patients. It is important that sufficient notification should be given to the medical profession.

Mr. Strang

I am satisfied on all counts. I can assure the hon. Gentleman that the Government internally have devoted a great deal of attention to this question recently.