HC Deb 22 November 1983 vol 49 cc121-2W
Sir Hector Monro

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if any cases of Paramyxovirus-1 have occurred in racing pigeons in Scotland; and what steps he has taken to warn pigeon fanciers of its dangers.

Mr. Younger

No case of paramyxovirus in racing pigeons has been confirmed in Scotland. The measures that the Government have introduced to combat this disease have been discussed fully with the bodies representing racing pigeon interests and announcements giving details of these measures have been widely publicised in the press. In addition, officers of the state veterinary service have discussed control measures with officials of the pigeon associations in Scotland and attended local meetings of association members to warn about the serious implications of the disease and to advise on precautionary measures.