41. Mr. HicksTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will increase the level of compensation to 100 per cent. for confirmed cases of bovine spongiform encephalopathy affected cattle; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonI believe that the existing compensation rate of 50 per cent. of market value is fair, given that the animals are suffering from a terminal illness but are valued as if unaffected by the disease.
§ 66. Mr. George HowarthTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many cases of bovine spongiform encephalopathy have been identified to date; in which counties; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonI refer the hon. Member to the reply that I gave on 28 November and which appears in theOfficial Report at columns 97–98.
§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will outline the procedures for the disposal of carcases of cows infected with bovine spongiform encephalopathy; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonThe disposal of carcases of cattle suspected of being affected with bovine spongiform encephalopathy is the responsibility of the Ministry's State Veterinary Service. It ensures that transportation, which is 325W prohibited except under licence, and incineration or burial is carried out in accordance with strict animal health conditions.