HC Deb 03 April 1996 vol 275 cc337-8W
Mr. Beggs

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in how many beef herds in Northern Ireland BSE has been identified; and how many beef cattle from these herds have been slaughtered in each year since 1986. [24209]

Mr. Ancram

[holding answer 2 April 1996]: BSE has been identified in 229 beef herds in Northern Ireland.

BSE was made notifiable in Northern Ireland in November 1988 when recording of cases of the disease commenced. The number of cattle from beef herds which have been slaughtered since then is:

  • 1988: 1
  • 1989: NIL
  • 1990: 15
  • 1991: 26
  • 1992: 47
  • 1993: 53
  • 1994: 80
  • 1995: 42
  • 1996: 6.

Mr. Ancram

[holding answer 2 April 1996]: The information is not readily available. I will write to the hon. Gentleman when it becomes available and place it in the library of the House.