§ Mr. PatersonTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she expects that livestock markets will be reopened. [19742]
§ Mr. Morley[holding answer 4 December 2001]: Some livestock markets have reopened in Scotland reflecting the lower number of FMD cases there. A decision to reopen livestock markets in England and Wales will be made in the light of scientific and veterinary advice on progress with the eradication of foot and mouth disease. It is not possible to give a precise date but it is expected to be in the early part of 2002, provided there are no further outbreaks.