§ Mr. Boyesasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food why he decided to ban pigeon racing from the continent; when he intends to lift the ban; what meetings he has had with his colleagues on the continent; and whether he will approve of pigeons being vaccinated against paramyxo virus 3.
§ Mrs. FennerWe concluded that having regard to the existence of a paramyxo virus in racing pigeons on the continent, steps should be taken to minimise the risk of importing the virus into this country through pigeon racing. The suspension on racing will be lifted when the disease situation permits. The possible need to take other measures to safeguard pigeons in this country will be kept under review.
Regular liaison between the veterinary services in this and neighbouring countries on the issue, and indeed on all animal health matters, is maintained.