§ Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will 80W make a statement on the current levels of warble fly infestation; and what plans are in prospect for an eradication scheme.
§ Mr. StrangThe level of warble fly infestation varies from year to year but is estimated to approach 30 per cent in cattle in England and Wales and is under 10 per cent in Scotland. The figures are disappointing, since the condition can be treated easily and successfully with a systemic dressing. We are making an economic appraisal of a possible compulsory eradication scheme, but before such a scheme could go ahead we would need to consider it alongside other desirable animal health measures, bearing in mind the current economic constraints.