§ Mr. Ron DaviesTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he is taking to protect the welfare of cattle used in embryo transplants.
§ Mr. SoamesRegulations for the collection and transfer of bovine embryos are being finalised by the Department. In preparing these regulations, full regard is being give to the welfare implications of the procedures of embryo collection and transfer. There will be a general requirement that all collections and transfers are carried out under the responsibility of a veterinary surgeon. In addition, two particular welfare provisions are envisaged
—the use of epidural anaesthesia would be mandatory prior to any collection or transfer of embryos;—the examination of recipient cows by a veterinary surgeon would be required prior to transfer taking place, to certify their suitability to carry the embryo intended for transfer.The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has also proposed that, in conjunction with the British Veterinary Association, it will draw up a code of practice for bovine embryo transfer to complement the Regulations.