§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many of the veterinary officers and technical assistants were involved on(a) 15 February and (b) 16 February at lairages near Dover in inspecting animals to ensure that they were fit to travel under the Welfare of Animals During Transport Order 1994 and to deal with other related matters; on each such day how many consignments were inspected by his veterinary officers and technical assistants; how many (i) sheep and (ii) calves were inspected; how many hours were spent in carrying out the inspections; and if he will make a statement. [16339]
362W
§ Mrs. Browning[holding answer 22 February 1996]: On 15 February, there were 13 consignments of calves totalling 1,651 calves and one consignment of 231 sheep. Six Ministry veterinary officers, one temporary veterinary inspector and 10 technical staff were present at Dover lairages at various times between 0700 and 1630.
On 16 February, there were two consignments of calves totalling 205 calves and one consignment of 250 sheep. There were two veterinary officers and two technical staff carrying out the inspections. In addition, the opportunity was taken to train three technical staff. Ministry staff were present at lairages between 0730 and 1230.