§ Mr. S. MITCHELLasked the Secretary for Scotland if he is aware that recently there have been further out-breaks of foot-and-mouth disease in South Lanarkshire; that this is causing increased anxiety and alarm not only among agriculturists but among the public in general; and, while it is recognised that the authorities whose duty it is to cope with this outbreak have been most energetic, will he consider the advisability of giving the authorities increased powers to deal with the situation?
Mr. GUINNESSI have been asked to reply. I am aware that further out-breaks of foot-and-mouth disease have recently occurred in the Lanarkshire area, but I am advised that there is no cause for undue alarm. The position is well in hand, and I am satisfied that both the Ministry and the local authorities concerned have all the powers necessary to enable them to deal promptly and efficiently with the situation. Stockowners in the affected area can materially assist the authorities by confining their stock under cover wherever practicable within two miles of any outbreak, and by preventing the admission of strangers and visitors to any buildings or lands where livestock are located. Forms of notice, under Section 13 of the Diseases of Animals Act, 1894, have been made available by the local authority. These notices, which may be obtained by stockowners free of charge, indicate that it is an offence for any person to enter premises to which the notices apply unless he has received permission from the owner or person in charge of the animals.