§ Mr. PaiceTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he is proposing to take to consider the supply and demand for veterinary surgeons, particularly in the light of the Riley report.
§ Mr. MacGregorConsideration of the Riley report is a matter for the Universities Funding Council. I am concerned, however that there appears to be a growing shortage of British-trained veterinary surgeons. After discussions with my right hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for Education and Science and for Scotland, I have decided that it would be sensible and prudent to review the demand for veterinary surgeons in both the public service and the private sector. The study will also consider the supply of veterinary education and the demand from home and overseas students and will have regard to the potential funding from the Universities Funding Council and other sources. I shall be announcing the details as soon as possible.