§ Mr. Kitsonasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make the notification of the disease salmonellosis in cattle compulsory.
§ Mr. John MackieNo. Notification could only be a formality. No useful action could be taken if the disease were made notifiable. In any case, the infection is sometimes difficult to recognise and similar symptoms may have other causes. My officers do, however, notify medical officers of any outbreaks that come to their notice, where there appears to be a threat to public health.
§ Mr. Kitsonasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he intends to take to eradicate the spread of salmonellosis in calves; and if he will introduce legislation to give his department powers to enter farming premises, where there is evidence that salmonella infection exists, to eradicate known infection.
§ Mr. John MackieThe organisms that cause this disease are widely spread in animals and man. Eradication by statutory methods is not practicable. Our officers are always ready to advise veterinary surgeons about the prevention and control of the disease.