§ LORD GLYNasked Her Majesty's Government whether the risk of outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease is not likely to be increased in proportion to the failure to retain the most stringent regulations in regard to the use and disposal of swill; and whether any explanation can be given as to reasons why swill from R.A.F. stations and other establishments is now free of the conditions of sale by contract previously enforced, and offers by the highest bidder have preference over methods of treatment to destroy the virus of foot-and-mouth disease.
§ THE JOINT PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES (LORD CARRINGTON)The collection and disposal of kitchen waste by local authorities in urban areas, which was compulsory under war-time controls, has now been made voluntary. In the interests of animal health, the licensing of private collectors is being retained pending a review of the whole matter by my right honourable friend in the light of any recommendations that may be made to him by the Gowers Committee on Foot-and-Mouth Disease, which is expected to report by the end of June. The Committee have given a great deal of thought to the problem of the risks of disease arising from the use and disposal of swill and their considered views will be of the greatest help to the Government.
As regards swill from R.A.F. stations and other Service establishments, it would not be reasonable in present circumstances to discriminate against the Services by requiring them to dispose of their swill only to certain specified types of plant operators when other authorities and private persons are free to sell in open competition to any licensed plant. The Service Departments will only sell swill to collectors whose plant has been approved by my Department.