§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he is taking to eradicate hydatid disease; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacleanThe Ministry, in conjunction with the Welsh Office Agriculture Department, has completed a six-year pilot project in Powys for this disease, where the problem is greatest. The objective of the project was to determine the feasibility of controlling or eradicating the disease through the regular dosing of dogs with a de-worming drug. This has resulted in a significant reduction of hydatid infestation in the area. We have no plans to introduce a national eradication policy for this disease.