§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many incidents of salmonella in farm animals were recorded in Wales in each year since 1990; and if he will make a statement. [34973]
§ Mrs. BrowningThe number of incidents of salmonella in farm animals in Wales reported to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food under the Zoonoses Order 1989 since 1990, and up to 13 July 1995, are shown in the table:
Species 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 Cattle and Calves 202 156 139 237 249 159 Sheep 20 17 13 14 30 36 Pigs 2 3 2 4 3 1 Poultry 135 95 45 43 16 4 Other Species 23 7 1 14 12 14 Total 382 278 200 312 310 214 The reporting system was enhanced in 1993. Data for earlier years are not directly comparable with that collected since 1993.
It is encouraging to note that reported incidents of salmonella in poultry continue to decline. Recent data show that cases of salmonella typhimurium DT104 infection have been increasing in other farmed animals, most notably cattle. A case control study in cattle has been set up to try to discover why the incidence of this organism has increased.
The Government remain committed to firm but proportionate action against salmonella and continued protection for the consumer while avoiding disproportionate burdens on producers.
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