§ Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGEasked the Minister of Agriculture how many inspectors have been appointed who are qualified to test cows for tubercular disease; and how many there are in Lincolnshire, and where they are stationed?
Mr. WOODFor the purposes of the Diseases of Animals Acts, veterinary in-2062W spectors are appointed by the local authorities for each county and borough, and the Ministry understands that in the three divisions of Lincolnshire 37 veterinary inspectors have been appointed and stationed at 28 centres, particulars of which are given below. These inspectors would be qualified to test cows for tubercular disease, but as the Tuberculosis Order is not at present in force such work does not fall within the duties of the inspectors appointed by the local authorities. Certain Acts and Orders which may involve the employment of veterinary surgeons are also administered by the Ministry of Health:
Local Authority Veterinary Inspectors
Lincs. (Holland) (6)—(Long Sutton, Donington, Boston (2), Crowland, Peterborough.
Boston. (*1)—Boston
Lincs. (Kesteven)(9)—Grantham, Stain ford (2), Bourne, Sleaford (2), Lincoln, Market Deeping, Metheringham.
Grantham (1)—Grantham.
Lincs. (Lindsey)(21)—Alford, Brigg (2), Epworth, Fulstow, Grimsby (2), Gainsborough (3), Hemswell, Horn-castle, Kelby, Lincoln (2). Louth, Marcham le Fen, Market Rasen, Saxilby, Spilsby, Swinefleet.
Grimsby (*1)—Grimsby.
Lincoln (*1)—Lincoln.
Louth (*1)—Louth.
§ Mr. SMITHERSasked the Minister of Agriculture what further steps he proposes to take to ensure that all cows are periodically inspected for tuberculosis, and that the necessary action is taken to prevent, as far as possible, milk from tuberculous animals being used for human consumption?
§ Mr. N. CHAMBERLAINI have been asked to reply. The point referred to by my hon. Friend is receiving consideration, with other matters of administration incidental to the coming into operation of the Milk and Dairies (Consolidation) Act, 1915, on the 1st September next.