§ Mr. Brocklebank-Fowlerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many outbreaks of swine vesicular disease have been reported since restrictions were extended to cover the whole country; when these restrictions will be relaxed; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MoyleThe present controlled area restrictions were initially imposed over most counties in England on 21st March 1974, and from that date to 5th April there were 20 outbreaks of swine vesicular disease. Because of an outbreak in Wales the restrictions were extended to the whole of Wales on 6th April, since when there have been nine further outbreaks in Great Britain.
If there are no further outbreaks of disease, consideration will be given to removing the present restrictions by 6th May.
Our objective is to eradicate this disease and controlled areas have been most effective in reducing its spread, but I am aware that they can cause difficulties for the pig trade. Alternative regulations which could reduce the need for controlled area restrictions are under con- 522W sideration, and the views of the NFU and other interested organisations are being sought.