§ Sir J. Lambasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the general dissatisfaction regarding the interpretation of the readings of the double intradermal test for bovine tuberculosis which exists not only in the veterinary profession but also amongst the owners of cattle in this 37W country, and the danger and financial loss incurred in using any but reliable tests in the eradication of disease from the herds and in the production of milk, he will set up a commission to investigate and report on the matter?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithThe adoption of the double intradermal test in this country was the outcome of recommendations contained in the report on "Tuberculin Tests in Cattle: Medical Research Council, Special Report Series, No. 94," published in 1925.
Although it is inevitable that difficulty must occasionally be experienced in the interpretation of any test of this nature, I am not aware that there is general dissatisfaction with the technique of the double intradermal test, either in the veterinary profession or among farmers. I fully appreciate the importance of ensuring that any test employed for the diagnosis of tuberculosis should be as reliable as possible, and whilst 1 am not satisfied that there is any need for the appointment of a commission, as suggested by my hon. Friend, I can
Particulars of the various detachments located in the Greenock area. Unit. Establishment. Strength, 1stFebruary, 1939. Recruits joined during January-December, 1938. Officers. Other Ranks. Officers. Other Ranks. Regular Army. Clyde Fire Command 2 15 2 15 — Territorial Army. 77th Field Regiment, Royal Artillery (part). 17 224 11 234 74 Renfrew Fortress Companies,Royal Engineers. 9 108 9 130 22 5/6th Battalion, The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders (part). 9 203 9 245 —* * The number of recruits allocated to this detachment in the Greenock area is not available.