§ Mr. Royleasked the Minister of Agriculture what weight of beef has been condemned as a result of tuberculosis to 30th November, 1945; and what steps he is taking to trace the disease and eradicate it.
§ Mr. CollickI understand from my right hon. Friend the Minister of Food that during the year ended March, 1945, the latest period for which figures are available, the total weight of beef condemned for all causes was 11,938 tons. Separate figures of condemnations for tuberculosis are not available, but they probably account for about 70 per cent. of the total. The eradication of tuberculosis from cattle herd is encouraged under the Tuberculosis (Attested Herds) Scheme, which is making steady progress. It is, however, only rarely that the tracing back to the farm of origin of the condemned animal would facilitate eradication. Personal Case
Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will confer with the Minister of Labour with a view to the release from the N.F.S. of Fireman R. L. Holyoake, who is a skilled agricultural labourer, and who is wanted, and has been promised employment, on the land upon his release.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsInquiries have been made by the Worcestershire War Agricultural Executive Committee, who have informed my Department that the applicant for this fireman's release does not appear at present to be in need of additional skilled labour. Further inquiries are being made into the matter, however, and I hope to write to the hon. Member shortly.