§ 115. Mr. Grimondasked the Minister of Agriculture to make a statement on the causes of the recent outbreak of fowl pest.
§ Sir T. DugdaleThe main reason for the large increase in the number of cases of fowl pest reported in recent weeks is that an outbreak occurred in a large hatchery and rearing plant near Halifax from which a considerable number of movements of stock had taken place before the presence of disease was recognised. These movements account for 129 of the 183 outbreaks that have occurred since 28th November. Of the other 54 outbreaks during this period, 33 appear to have spread from known outbreaks. Origins of the remaining 21 and of the outbreak at Halifax remain obscure, though inquiries are continuing.
§ Mr. Llewellynasked the Minister of Agriculture to make a statement about fowl pest in Wales, with particular reference to the number of counties involved.
§ Sir T. DugdaleWales was free from fowl pest from July, 1951 until 26th November this year. Since that date there have been 15 outbreaks as shown in the following table:
Brecon 3 Caernarvon 1 Cardigan 1 Carmarthen 1 Glamorgan 4 Monmouth 2 Pembroke 1 Radnor 2 Of these outbreaks, 14 are believed to be connected with the recent large outbreak near Halifax, and one with an 254W outbreak in Sussex. Approximately 880 birds have been slaughtered and the compensation involved amounts to about £1,000.
The usual steps have been taken to slaughter affected birds and their contacts, and to disinfect premises. I hope that this will prove effective in again freeing Wales from the disease.