HL Deb 04 April 1979 vol 399 c1967WA
Lord O'HAGAN

asked Her Majesty's Government:

To make a statement about the out-break of enzootic bovine leucosis.

Lord STRABOLGI

Enzootic bovine leucosis is a virus disease affecting cattle. It does not spread quickly. The infection was first confirmed in Great Britain in June 1978 following which the Government undertook a survey of imported cattle and their progeny to establish the extent to which the disease existed in the national herd. In the light of this survey and subsequent consultations, it was announced on 19th March that the Government had decided to introduce a scheme for the voluntary establishment of EBL-free herds in Great Britain. Under this scheme, starting on 1st August, owners wishing to join will submit their herds for serological testing. Provided a herd contains no reactors it will then be registered as EBL-free. Details of the scheme will be published as soon as possible and copies placed in the Library of the House.