§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what proposals have been agreed or are due to be agreed with regard to rabies controls on pet animals being imported into the United Kingdom other than those which are commercially traded; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GummerThe Commission is understood to he considering a proposal for rabies controls on pet animals. The Commission and the Council have agreed that any arrangements for pet animals must provide at least the same level of protection as have been agreed for commercially traded cats and dogs.
§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about the current status of the agreement reached on rabies control; and if he will outline the steps to be taken before it can be implemented.
§ Mr. GummerThe directive covering commercial trade in rabies-susceptible animals was adopted formally at the Council of Ministers on 13 July. Detailed implementing rules need to be decided by standing veterinary committee procedure before the necessary amendments to national regulations can be made.