HC Deb 04 February 1982 vol 17 cc530-1
9. Mr. John MacKay

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will take more effective steps to ensure the eradication of sheep scab.

Mrs. Fenner

The disease continues to manifest itself despite the stringent control measures adopted by the Government with the co-operation of sheep owners. We shall continue to take all practicable steps to eradicate the disease through movement controls and appropriate dipping requirements.

Mr. MacKay

Is my hon. Friend aware that I am pleased to hear that the Department might accept that that disease is more widespread than was thought? Will she accept that the only way to eradicate it is to have compulsory dipping?

Mrs. Fenner

No national dipping was undertaken in Scotland last year. That was a matter of decision by the Secretary of State for Scotland. That conclusion was based on the fact that there had been an absence of sheep scab since 1978 in Scotland. However, there have been 12 outbreaks there in recent months.

Mr. Wm. Ross

Is the hon. Lady aware that I welcome her statement on the restriction of movement of stock? Is she aware that her noble Friend the Minister of State, Northern Ireland Office, recently drew attention to the vast sums of money made by smuggling on the Northern Ireland-Republic border? Is she further aware that any effort by the Government to impose an all-Ireland sheepmeat support regime will be resisted in Northern Ireland?

Mrs. Fenner

I shall ensure that the hon. Gentleman's comments are drawn to the attention of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

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