§ Mr. Georgeasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food why permission was refused to the British Barcelona Club to hold its annual race from Spain; and if, in the light of the importance of this race to pigeon racing enthusiasts, he will review his decision.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerPermission was refused to the British Barcelona Club to hold its annual pigeon race from Spain because of the disease risks, in particular the danger of introducing Newcastle disease and foot and mouth disease.
I appreciate the importance of this race to pigeon racing enthusiasts, but I could not agree to changing my decision which could severely prejudice the high disease status of our livestock and poultry.