HC Deb 13 April 1967 vol 744 cc229-30W
Mr. Garrett

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about the recommendations made to him by the National Farmers' Unions on procedures in relation to foot-and-mouth disease control.

Mr. Peart

There have been discussions with the National Farmers' Unions on recommendations which they have put forward to me, based on the report of Northumberland and Roxburghshire County Branches.

It is clear that I can, and will most gladly, accept most of these recommendations, but the National Farmers' Unions wish to have further talks on some of the recommendations and on points of detail and I am, of course, agreeing to this request. As soon as these points are cleared, I propose to publish the recommendations made, with my comments on them and an account of the action I am taking.

Viscount Lambton

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether, in view of the fact it has now been ascertained that the type of humane killer used in the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Northumberland last year was designed to stun and not to kill, and in Northumberland that animals were alive for long periods after their supposed death, he will take steps to see that a more lethal weapon is used by slaughterers in future outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease.

Mr. Peart

I do not accept all the implications of the hon. Member's question.

In my statement of 22nd February I undertook to hold consultations to see whether any improvements in the weapons or in the method of slaughter used in foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks could be obtained. I have now consulted the R.S.P.C.A., the Council of Justice to Animals and the Humane Slaughter Association, representatives of weapon manufacturers and a distinguished veterinary physiologist. I understand that the National Farmers' Union wish to discuss this matter. I shall make a further statement as soon as possible.