HC Deb 29 June 1994 vol 245 cc550-1W
Mr. Morley

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she will list the number of cases of bovine TB in cattle imported from Ireland in each year since 1990 and in each month of 1994.

Mr. Soames

The number of confirmed cases of bovine TB in cattle imported from Ireland in each year since 1990 were:

Number
1990 12
1991 18
1992 3
1993 4
1994 1Nil
1 Provisional figure as at 28 June.

Mr. Morley

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what methods of screening Irish cattle for bovine TB are in place; and what measures she intends to introduce.

Mr. Soames

All Irish cattle, except bullocks, are tested for bovine tuberculosis 60 days after importation. In addition, all animals in herds maintained by or which have regular intakes of Irish cattle are tested annually. The routine testing interval for herds which import bullocks from Ireland for fattening purposes is set at the discretion of the divisional veterinary officer. No further measures are considered necessary.

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