§ Mr. Geraint HowellsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with farm animal welfare groups in Wales regarding long-term use of the milk production hormone bovine somatotropin; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerNone. Last year, the Farm Animal Welfare Council consulted a wide range of interests, including animal welfare organisations, on the welfare implications of using bovine somatotropin. The council has drawn attention to certain longer term aspects of animal welfare where further information is required. These are being considered in ongoing field trials.