§ Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many outbreaks of swine fever there have been, respectively, in the United Kingdom and in the continental member countries of the EEC during the past three years; and what proposals he has to ensure that domestic animal health regulations are not relaxed in respect of movement of pigs from the Continent.
§ Mrs. FennerThe number of outbreaks of swine fever in the United Kingdom and in the continental EEC countries during the years 1970, 1971 and 1972 are set out below. Figures for92W the first half of 1973 are not yet available for all EEC countries.
Imports of live pigs from continental countries are subject to the making of special orders under Section 27 of the Diseases of Animals Act 1950. There are no such orders current at present. We have obtained a derogation from the EEC to apply our own national rules until 31st December 1977 and can therefore ensure that our domestic animal health requirements are fully safeguarded. The position will be reviewed in the light of developments in the disease situation during the transitional period.
SWINE FEVER OUTBREAKS IN UNITED KINGDOM AND CONTINENTAL EEC COUNTRIES 1970–72 Country 1970 1971 1972 United Kingdom (Great Britain). — 3 — United Kingdom (Northern Ireland). — — — Belgium 506 93 40 Denmark — — — France 131 15 84 Italy 3 17 15 Luxembourg 1 2 — Netherlands 927 388 164 Western Germany 343 396 961