§ Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if the sheep at Kirkby Stephen were tested for the foot and mouth(a) virus and (b) antibody before restocking; and if she will make a statement. [39509]
§ Mr. Morley[holding answer 1 March 2002]: All animals used for controlled restocking must come from farms which have been inspected and found free from foot and mouth disease (FMD).
The sheep used to restock at Kirkby Stephen came from two sources. One source was tested for antibodies in September and in November with negative results on both occasions. The second source was also tested for antibodies in August and November, with negative results on both occasions. Neither flock was tested for virus.