§ Mr. Ieuan Wyn JonesTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he expects the Sheep Scab Order 1997 to come into force; and if he will make a statement. [3804]
§ Mr. RookerThe Sheep Scab Order 1997 was made on 19 March 1997 under the previous Government and came into force on 1 July 1997. The order is designed to support the majority within the sheep industry who take their welfare responsibilities seriously and treat their animals against sheep scab.
It is intended to enable local authorities to order the treatment of sheep which are visibly affected with sheep scab. Local authorities will also be able to assist farmers deal with confirmed sheep scab on common land by ordering the clearance of the commons and requiring that sheep are treated for sheep scab before they are permitted to return. We shall be monitoring the operation of the order against its objectives.