§ Mr. Andersonasked the Prime Minister if he will define the responsibilities of the Secretary of State for Wales for the veterinary services in Wales.
§ The Prime MinisterThe official veterinary services in Wales come under128W the direction of the Chief Veterinary Officer for Great Britain and are the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. This arrangement ensures unified control of veterinary operations against animal diseases, and facilitates the most effective and economic deployment of the professional staff, especially in emergencies. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales is however in close touch with the Minister of Agriculture on any policy questions relating to veterinary matters which are of particular concern to Wales.