§ Miss McIntoshTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps she plans to take to enable livestock to reach their winter accommodation before winter weather sets in. [10181]
§ Mr. MorleyThe Department introduced livestock movement arrangements for the autumn on 17 September, in consultation with a wide range of interested parties. The scheme rules have been kept under constant review in light of the changing disease situation across the country and are designed to allow the maximum movement compatible with eradicating foot and mouth disease. Detailed information on the autumn movements arrangements have been placed on the DEFRA website http://www.defra.gov.uk/. A movement licence helpline is also available on 01392 314941 and is open from 8:30–17:30 on weekdays and 9:00–13.00 on Saturdays.
§ Miss McIntoshTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what representations she has received relating to her Department's advice to farmers on the licensing provisions for livestock movements. [10177]
§ Mr. MorleyThe Department has received a range of representations concerning the operation of the autumn livestock movement arrangements. Advice on licensing arrangements has been made available to farmers through leaflets, the DEFRA website and the movement licence helpline. My noble Friend Lord Whitty sent a detailed letter to all livestock farmers in England and Wales about the arrangements on 11 September. We have consulted regularly with stakeholders ever since the licensing596W scheme was introduced and we are always ready to consider suggestions for improving the way in which we disseminate information to farmers.
§ Mr. Laurence RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what estimate she has made of the number of animals over 30 months old which have not been transported owing to movement restrictions; and if she will make a statement. [12352]
§ Mr. Morley[holding answer 5 November 2001]: This information is not currently available. However, I have asked the British Cattle Movement Service to consider whether they can provide statistical information on the movement of over 30 month cattle, registered on the Cattle Tracing System. I will write to the hon. Member with more information as soon as possible.
§ Mr. Laurence RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what investigations she has carried out into her Department's animal health division with respect to the delay in the granting of movement licences; and if she will make a statement. [12349]
§ Mr. Morley[holding answer 5 November 2001]: The Autumn Movement Arrangements were introduced in three phases between 17 September and 1 October. The licensing system is dependent upon a database, which gave rise to a number of difficulties. My officials worked, and continue to work, very closely with local authorities and the livestock industry to resolve these difficulties, and I am satisfied that the arrangements are now operating satisfactorily.
The permitted range of movements under the Autumn Movement Arrangements is kept under review in the light of the developing disease situation.