HC Deb 08 July 1982 vol 27 c450
19. Mr. Colin Shepherd

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he has had discussions with the British Poultry Federation on health standards of the British poultry industry.

Mrs. Fenner

Close contact is maintained with representatives of the British poultry industry, both on health standards and on all related matters. We shall continue to seek to maintain existing policies to protect the health status of the national flock, in consultation with poultry interests.

Mr. Shepherd

Is my hon. Friend aware that the poultry industry places great importance on the maintenance of the highest possible health standards within the industry, especially with regard to Newcastle disease? Will she confirm that the Government believe that a policy of eradication is far better than a policy of vaccination? If perchance the European Court should continue to disregard the veterinary evidence, will the Government develop an adaptation of the Danish system, which will sustain the high health standards in the British poultry industry?

Mrs. Fenner

I cannot comment on the basis of the case in Europe, but my hon. Friend will know that we feel strongly about the correctness of our Newcastle disease policy. We shall continue to defend that policy vigorously.

Mr. J. Enoch Powell

Will the Government endeavour to ensure that the Common Market does not impose differential arrangements with regard to Newcastle disease upon Northern Ireland from the rest of the United Kingdom?

Mrs. Fenner

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Mark Hughes

Did the Minister listen carefully to what the hon. Member for Hereford (Mr. Shepherd) has just said? In the absence of a proper solution from the European Court, should we not be prepared to take the Danish line on Newcastle disease, and do it ourselves?

Mrs. Fenner

I reiterate my answer to my hon. Friend. I listened to his comments very carefully. I am not prepared to accept the hon. Gentleman's pessimistic view. We intend to defend our policy vigorously.