§ Mr. George Rodgersasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many animals have developed rabies subsequent to quarantine in the United Kingdom during the last 10 years; and if he is satisfied that the period of quarantine is of sufficient length.
§ Mr. Nicholas Wintertonasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will increase the period of quarantine for live animals imported into the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. StrangThere have been two cases since 1922, one in October 1969 and the other in February 1970.
Details of these and the factors relating to quarantine are contained in the final report of the Committee of Inquiry on Rabies (Cmnd 4696) presented to Parliament in June 1971. The six-month period of quarantine confirms to the recommendations of that committee and my right hon. Friend and I are satisfied that it is sufficient.
§ Mr. Cledwyn Hughesasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied that the existing arrangements at all United Kingdom ports are adequate to prevent the illegal entry of animals, in the light of the latest information about the advance of rabies infected animals to the coast of France; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BishopOur anti-rabies legislation and precautions have successfully prevented the entry of the disease through illegally imported animals for over 50 years. These measures were considerably strengthened by the Rabies (Importation of Dogs, Cats and other Mammals) Order 1974, and the detailed regulations to implement its provisions. Local and port authorities, Her Majesty's Customs and Excise and the police are all keenly aware of their duties and carry them out with vigilance and efficiency.
Nevertheless, there can be no room for complacency. We are constantly review- 192W ing ways and means to strengthen our defences still further. No defence can be complete without wholehearted public support. For this reason my hon. Friend will be launching a renewed publicity campaign on 5th May.