HC Deb 06 May 1954 vol 527 cc37-8W
74. Mr. Deedes

asked the Minister of Agriculture when he expects to receive the Report of Sir Ernest Gowers' committee on foot-and-mouth disease.

Sir T. Dugdale

I understand that the Committee have nearly completed their Report and hope to submit it to me by the end of June.

76. Mr. Hurd

asked the Minister of Agriculture if the cause of the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease amongst pigs at Aldermaston last week has been established; and if the particular source of origin has been identified.

Sir T. Dugdale

The source of the virus infection in this outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease has not been definitely established. It is suspected to lie in uncooked swill stored on the infected premises, and that contamination was conveyed indirectly, probably by rats.