HC Deb 07 July 1949 vol 466 cc167-8W
48. General Sir G. Jeffreys

asked the Minister of Agriculture what precautions are being taken to prevent the further spread of fowl pest amongst poultry; how far such precautions are proving to be successful; and how far healthy fowls that have been destroyed on account of having been in contact with the disease can be used for food.

Mr. T. Williams

The precautions include the slaughter of infected birds and contacts, the maintenance of restrictions on the movement and marketing of poultry in certain areas, the compulsory boiling of waste foodstuffs that contain or have been in contact with any part of a poultry carcase and the evisceration of poultry brought from the Continent of Europe. Unfortunately, there has been some increase in the number of outbreaks in recent weeks, and I am considering whether any further steps should be taken. Birds slaughtered as contacts may be salvaged for human consumption if they can be eviscerated and dressed for table on the infected premises. In most cases, however, this is not practicable.

Brigadier Medlicott

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he will make a statement on the measures that have been taken towards preventing the further extension of fowl pest.

Mr. T. Williams

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to a reply given today to the hon. and gallant Member for Petersfield (General Sir G. Jeffreys).