§ Mr. Carol Johnsonasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will advise local authorities to cease submitting orders to him for the creation, diversion or closure of public footpaths under the Highways Act, 1959 for the duration of the foot-and-mouth disease epidemic, so as to avoid the need for officers of the authorities and other persons to inspect the paths in question.
§ Mr. MacDermotA letter was sent to all local authorities on 7th December emphasising the importance of avoiding the spread of contamination which could result from inquiries and site visits on planning and other matters, and asking 257W them to seek advice from the Regional Controller of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if in any doubt. I understand that local authorities in danger areas have already instructed their officers not to make any site inspections for the time being.