§ The Earl of NORTHESKasked Her Majesty's Government:
What conclusions have been drawn concerning the recent discovery of Enzootic Bovine Leucosis in cattle in Great Britain; whether it is intended to carry out an eradication scheme of EBL in alignment with other EEC countries; and what arrangements have been made for exporting breeding cattle to other EEC countries that carry out an EBL eradication scheme.
§ Lord STRABOLGIWe are considering what would be the most practical course to take following a comprehensive survey of imported cattle and their progeny in this country. We are also playing an active part in EEC discussions on proposals to protect cattle against EBL and are concerned to ensure that our policy is complementary to decisions reached in Brussels so that the British export potential may be safeguarded.
The Government hope to make a policy announcement in the near future, following consultations with the farmers' unions, breed societies and other organisations.