HC Deb 12 November 1981 vol 12 cc650-1
15. Mr. Iain Mills

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether, following the response to the questionnaire seeking the views of pig producers on the eradication policy for Aujeszky's disease in pigs, he will make a statement on what further measures will be undertaken on this matter.

Mrs. Fenner

In its announcement of the detailed results of the poll my Department indicated that further action would be discussed with the industry. We expect to hold a meeting shortly.

Mr. Mills

Will my hon. Friend recognise the concern among farmers in my constituency and in Warwickshire and the West Midlands generally that in Germany and Denmark greater progress has been made on this issue? Will she consider further whether we are doing enough with our veterinary services?

Mrs. Fenner

We agreed with the NFU about the value of its questionnaire. Our policy on the disease remains as announced on 24 June. This year to date there have been only 11 outbreaks, but we are considering with the interested bodies what further action could be taken.

Forward to