HC Deb 09 November 2001 vol 374 c445W
Mr. Wiggin

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what measures she has taken to identify the source of foot and mouth imported into the United Kingdom. [9429]

Mr. Morley

A great deal of epidemiological research has been conducted into the origins of this outbreak. The current epidemic has been caused by a specific strain of the foot and mouth virus (PanAsian Strain O) which has occurred in a number of countries around the world. The precise means of introduction of the virus is unknown and subject to continuing investigations, but is most likely to have been introduced in illegally imported meat or meat products. It would not be appropriate to comment further on the specific question of the source or sources of the outbreak until all investigations are complete.

Hywel Williams

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on what basis she formulated her policy on implementing a public and independent inquiry into the foot and mouth outbreak. [9268]

Mr. Morley

The Government have already announced the independent "Lessons Learned" inquiry chaired by Dr. lain Anderson and the Royal Society Study chaired by Sir Brian Follett. along with the Policy Commission on the Future of Farming and Food chaired by Sir Don Curry.

We are satisfied that these two inquiries and the Policy Commission will provide rigorous investigation of the issues in the foot and mouth outbreak and will allow us to identify the best wary forward, quickly and efficiently and that this approach is in the best interests of the public.

Paul Flynn

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what recent assessment she has made of the contribution that livestock markets made to the spread of FMD infection. [12295]

Mr. Morley

[holding answer 2 November 2001]: Prior to 23 February 2001, infected sheep are known to have been traded through a number of markets in England and Wales resulting in the initial dissemination of disease to farms, dealers and slaughterhouses. Epidemiological investigations indicate that potentially infected sheep passed through six auction markets between 13 and 23 February. Investigations into the role of other markets have not been conclusive but are continuing.