§ Mr. Boyesasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food where paramyxovirus 3 and paramyxovirus 1 outbreaks have been located; how many birds have been involved in each location; and how many birds have died or been destroyed in each location.
§ Mrs. FennerParamyxovirus 1 has now been diagnosed in racing pigeons at four locations in Cornwall. Other possible outbreaks are under investigation both in that county and in a number of other locations. About 300 birds have been involved in those outbreaks which have been diagnosed in which a small number have died. A slaughter policy in relation to this disease is not being followed by the Government.
§ Mr. Campbell-Savoursasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will in future place a list in the Library of areas where new outbreaks of paramyxovirus take place.
§ Mrs. FennerWell-established arrangements apply under which the Ministry publicises significant outbreaks of notifiable diseases when these occur. Additionally, I have decided as a temporary measure to place in the Library the information which the hon. Member has requested.
§ Mr. Campbell-Savoursasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will make a statement as to the progress that has taken place in discussions with representatives of the French, Belgian, Dutch, German, Spanish and Portuguese Governments on the outbreak of paramyxo disease.
§ Mrs. FennerThe state veterinary service maintains continuous contact with its colleagues in other countries on all disease control problems, both in the context of the standing veterinary committee of the European Commission and bilaterally. Our import controls in relation to all diseases, including paramyxovirus in racing pigeons are kept under constant review in the light of developments in other countries.