§ Mr. HesfordTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he plans to implement changes in the quarantine requirements for animals coming into this country before the end of 1998; and if he will make a statement. [29743]
§ Mr. RookerThe Advisory Group on Quarantine is expected to report by late Spring, after which we plan to hold a full public consultation. Even if the assessment shows that changes to the current quarantine rules appear justified, it is unlikely that any new arrangements could be in place before the end of 1998. It is also possible that any changes could be introduced by EU, rather than national, legislation.