HC Deb 22 October 1981 vol 10 c167W

Mr. Speed asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what progress has been made on the eradication of brucellosis in cattle; and what plans the Government have for raising the compensation limit for reactors.

Mr. Peter Walker:

I am pleased to report that progress on the eradication of brucellosis in cattle is such that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales and I have made an order that declares the whole of England and Wales to be an attested area with effect from 1 November 1981. As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland declared Scotland an attested area with effect from 1 January 1980, the whole of Great Britain has now, for all practical puurposes, been freed from the disease. The eradication of brucellosis represents a great achievement that will bring lasting benefits to cattle farmers and, in public health terms, to the community as a whole. The successful outcome of the campaign is a tribute to the excellent co-operation between the livestock industry, the veterinary profession and Ministry staff.

With my right hon. Friends, the Secretary of State for Scotland and the Secretary of State for Wales, I propose to introduce a new, more flexible, method of fixing the maximum compensation payable for cattle slaughtered because they are affected with brucellosis or tuberculosis or are reactors when tested for either disease. At present there is a fixed maximum fine of £425. The proposal is that this limit be adjusted monthly according to a formula based on average market prices. These new arrangements will take effect from 1 January 1982. The necessary orders have been laid before Parliament.