Earl of Dalkeithasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the maximum penalty that can be imposed for offences against the movement of livestock regulations during foot-and-mouth disease epidemics; how many offences have been reported to him during the current epidemic; what penalties were imposed; whether he is satisfied that the present maximum penalty is a sufficient deterrent to breaches of the regulations: and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John Mackie:The maximum penalties under the Diseases of Animals Act 1950 for offences involving the movement of animals in contravention of the Foot-and-Mouth Disease (Infected Areas Restrictions) Order of 1938 or the Foot-and-Mouth Disease (Controlled Area Re- 544W strictions) General Order of 1938 are a fine of £50, or if the offence involves more than ten animals a fine of £5 for each animal. A second or subsequent offence within 12 months renders the offender liable, in the discretion of the court, to imprisonment for not more than one month in lieu of such fine.
Enforcement of the Diseases of Animals Act 1950 and Orders made under it is the responsibility of local authorities and the police. They are not required to report offences to me and I am unable to say how many offences have occurred during the current epidemic.
When court proceedings are taken the details of the case and the penalties imposed are generally reported by my local officers, but no reports have yet been received in respect of offences during the present epidemic.
Under the Criminal Justice Act 1967 which comes into force on 1st January, 1968, the penalties mentioned above will be increased to £200 and £20 respectively.