§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
When they expect that a computerised cattle tracing scheme, similar to that in operation in Northern Ireland, will be available in Great Britain; and whether they are able to assist in bringing forward the likely start date. [HL2070]
§ Lord DonoughueAs my right honourable friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food announced on 20 April, the computerised cattle tracing system for Great Britain will be launched on 28 September 1998. Plans for the launch are well under way. The time remaining is needed to complete testing of the computer and other equipment, and to train staff. We do not anticipate that the launch will be advanced.