§ Mr. Farrasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to what extent local authorities have been requested to establish a working relationship with local veterinary officers in their plans to combat rabies.
§ Mr. StrangThe guidelines to local authorities on rabies outbreak contingency planning stress the necessity for a close working relationship and coordination between local authorities, the police and Ministry veterinary field staff at all stages of planning. We have also encouraged local authorities to include practising veterinary surgeons in their areas in both their contingency plans and their planning consultations, and to this end to consult the local branches of the British Veterinary Association as appropriate.
§ Mr. Farrasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if local authorities have been requested to seek the approval of his Department in relation to their plans for the disposal of carcases in the event of a rabies outbreak; and if he is satisfied with the arrangements which have been made.
§ Mr. StrangThe guidelines to local authorities on rabies outbreak contingency planning suggest suitable disposal 195W methods for carcases of stray animals. No Ministry approval is necessary, although advice is freely available from our veterinary field staff. Disposal of carcases of rabid or suspect rabid animals would be the responsibility of the State Veterinary Service. Contingency planning is a continuous process and I am satisfied with the arrangements being made.