§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in view of the Council of Nature's statement pointing out the danger from rabies to human beings, domestic animals and wild life, due to the smuggling of dogs and other pets into Great Britain, he will implement the recommendation of the Waterhouse Committee that a Government veterinary officer, to be named a portal officer, should be available for each seaport and airport designated as a point of entry for imported animals, and charged primarily with securing observance of the regulations.
§ Mr. Anthony StodartThe problem of smuggling is not restricted to designated seaports and airports, and we must continue to rely on Customs and Excise officers as our chief defence against animals being smuggled into this country, and on local authorites as the enforcement bodies for our rabies regulations. Government veterinary officers are available to assist Customs and Excise and local authorities on any matters arising in this connection.