HC Deb 20 July 1989 vol 157 cc285-6W
Dr. David Clark

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many post-mortem examinations of seals have been carried out by his Department in each of the last five years; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Donald Thompson

My Department's veterinary investigation service carried out the following numbers of post mortem examinations of seals in 1985–89 (to date):

Number
1985 1
1986 7
1987 6
1988 8
1989 2

Examinations are performed as part of the diagnostic service provided to private veterinary practitioners.

The Department of the Environment has primary responsibility for matters concerning the recent epidemic of disease in seals.