§ 64. Mr. HagueTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assessment he has made of the implications for animal health of freer European markets for agricultural products.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonAlthough the Commission has made a number of proposals on animal health issues in anticipation of the realisation of the single market, it has not yet made proposals on the regime to apply after its completion. The Government's position is quite clear. We aim to secure the right balance between minimising barriers to trade and maintaining effective veterinary controls as long as they are necessary to prevent the spread of disease.