§ Mr. Geraint Howellsasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many outbreaks of scab were confirmed in England, during the last 12 months ; what were the corresponding figures for the last three years ; and if he will make a statement.
75W
§ Mr. WigginThere were 23 outbreaks of sheep scab confirmed in England during the last 12 months. Corresponding figures for the same period of 1976–77, 1977–78 and 1978–79 were 69, 51 and 57 respectively.
Of the 23 outbreaks, 20 were in the South-West of the country and the others were associated with the movement of sheep from that area.
Provided that there is no deterioration, compulsory dipping this year will be confined to Devon, Cornwall and part of North-West Somerset during the period 13 October to 14 November.