§ Mr. George OsborneTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when livestock markets in England and Wales will reopen. [26725]
§ Mr. MorleyOn 18 December 2001, the Government announced changes to the livestock movement controls which we intend to introduce in February 2002 provided there is continued progress in eradicating foot and mouth disease.
From the start of these arrangements, cattle markets will be allowed to resume, but for sheep and pigs, slaughter markets only will be allowed initially. The question of whether to allow other sheep and pig markets will be kept under review in the light of veterinary and scientific advice.
When markets do reopen, they will be subject to strict construction and operating conditions to ensure that an appropriate level of biosecurity is maintained.