§ Gregory BarkerTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) what recent representations her Department has received concerning(a) the health of farm animals in the United Kingdom and(b) the need for revised regulations governing the health of farm animals in the United Kingdom; [81904]
(2) what plans she has to revise regulations governing the health of farm animals in the United Kingdom. [81905]
§ Mr. MorleyThe two FMD inquiries commissioned by the Government made a number of recommendations relevant to the health of farm animals and regulation in this area, and the Government's response to the inquiries was published on 6 November 2002.
The suggestion that there might be a general review of animal health legislation is being taken forward by the Department in partnership with the Scottish Executive and the Welsh Assembly Government in the development of a comprehensive animal health and welfare strategy for Great Britain in consultation with stakeholders. The scope and nature of future legislation will be addressed next year following the publication of the strategy.