HC Deb 03 April 2001 vol 366 cc150-1W
Mr. Sawford

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what powers are available to restrict the movements of travellers during an outbreak of foot and mouth disease; and if he will review these powers. [156713]

Mr. Charles Clarke

Both the police and local authorities have powers to direct trespassers to leave land when certain statutory conditions are met. There are no specific powers to restrict travellers from moving around during the current outbreak of foot and mouth disease, but there are laws to prevent any person from moving into a designated foot and mouth disease area. Enforcement of the law is a matter for the relevant chief officer of police.