§ Mr. Freudasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the complement at British ports of officers deputed to prevent the illegal entry of animals that might have rabies; and if he will list these, in respect of each port.
§ Mr. StrangThere are no officers allocated to this task alone. It falls within the overall duties of customs officers, the diseases of animals inspectors appointed by local authorities, and police officers. In addition, other port and airport officials, Her Majesty's Coastguard, proprietors and staffs of harbours and marinas, and others whose work brings them into contact with potential offenders, have been alerted to assist in preventing the illegal landing of animals.
§ Mr. Freudasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what instructions have been given to port authorities at Wisbech regarding searches of foreign ships for animals suffering from rabies.
§ Mr. StrangThe normal customs procedures for dealing with incoming yachts and other vessels are strictly observed at Wisbech. They include arrangements designed to prevent the illegal landing of rabies-susceptible animals. Consultations have been held between Ministry officials and the local authority diseases of animals inspectors and police in the area, who are fully aware of their responsibilities in implementing the antirabies regulations.