HC Deb 23 July 1996 vol 282 c266W
Mr. Morley

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many export consignments of animals Mr. Jonathan Stirling has been involved with as an local veterinary inspector since 1 July. [38411]

Mrs. Browning

[holding answer 22 July 1996]: Mr. Jonathan Stirling did not carry out any LVI duties with respect to the export of any consignment of cattle, sheep or pigs during the period 1 July to 15 July 1996.

Mr. Morley

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he intends to publish the report of the inquiry into Mr. Stirling's role as an LVI. [38412]

Mrs. Browning

[holding answer 22 July 1996]: My investigation officers have carried out a thorough investigation of the allegations made in the Channel 4 "Dispatches" programme which was broadcast earlier this year. The investigation included consideration of the material provided by the programme makers to the Department following broadcast.

A report was submitted by the investigation branch to the Department's prosecution lawyers at the beginning of June. The lawyers have now considered the report and concluded that there is no evidence which would give rise to criminal charges against anyone featured in the "Dispatches" programme nor was there any evidence to substantiate the allegations of serious misconduct by the LVI featured in the programme.

Reports of investigations carried out by investigation officers of the Department are not published.