HC Deb 18 November 1937 vol 329 cc584-5W
Mr. Noel-Baker

asked the Minister of Agriculture what sum of money has been expended by His Majesty's Government during the last 20 years on compensation for cattle suffering from foot-and-mouth disease?

Mr. W. S. Morrison.

The total sum expended on the payment of compensation for animals slaughtered on account of outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease during the 20 years 1917–1936 amounts to £4,900,223. This figure includes compensation payable in respect of animals (cattle, sheep, goats and swine) slaughtered on account of their exposure to infection as well as animals actually suffering from the disease.

Mr. Noel-Baker

asked the Minister of Agriculture what sum of money was expended by His Majesty's Government during the last financial year upon research into the causation, prevention, and cure of foot-and-mouth disease?

Mr. W. S. Morrison

The total expenditure by His Majesty's Government during the financial year ended 31st March, 1937, upon research into the causation, prevention and cure of foot-and-mouth disease was £16,591.

Mr. Drewe

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that cyder apples are being imported from France at the present time; and whether he is satisfied that this may not be a possible source of infection of foot-and-mouth disease?

Mr. W. S. Morrison

There is no evidence to indicate that imports of cyder apples or other fruit have been associated in any way with the present series of outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease, nor has such evidence been forthcoming in connection with outbreaks over a period f many years.