§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many veterinary and other laboratories were directly under the auspices of his Department in each year since 1979; what proposals he has to maintain these laboratories; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Donald Thompson[holding answer 7 March 1989]: The information requested is shown in the table:
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonNational statistics on attacks on livestock by dogs have not been collected centrally since 1978. There is no doubting that such attacks are a serious and continuing problem, but there is no evidence that they have increased recently. The Ministry campaigns continuously to encourage owners to take a responsible attitude and keep their dogs under control in livestock areas.