HC Deb 27 November 2001 vol 375 cc847-8W
Matthew Green

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when livestock markets will reopen for the sale of(a) sheep and (b) cattle; and if she will make a statement. [17711]

Mr. Morley

Livestock markets in Scotland have reopened subject to strict conditions. The decision to reopen livestock markets for either sheep or cattle in England or Wales will be taken in the light of veterinary and scientific advice on progress towards eradicating the foot and mouth disease. It is hoped that it may be possible to open some markets in the early part of next year.

Matthew Green

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many weeks after the last confirmed case of foot and mouth disease will livestock markets be reopened for the sale of(a) sheep and (b) cattle. [17572]

Mr. Morley

The decision to reopen livestock markets for sheep or cattle will be made in the light of scientific and veterinary advice on progress with eradication of foot and mouth disease. It is not possible to state a precise period which will need to elapse after the last case.

Matthew Green

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what contingency plans she has made for permanently closing livestock markets and compensating their owners. [17571]

Mr. Morley

There are no plans to close livestock markets permanently.

Matthew Green

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what notice period will be given for the re-opening of livestock markets for the sale of(a) sheep and (b) cattle. [17573]

Mr. Morley

In reaching a decision on the re-opening of livestock markets, account will be taken of the need to give farmers, auctioneers and other interested parties as much notice as possible.

Matthew Green

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will list the restrictions and regulations that will be in force on livestock markets when they re-open which were not in force prior to the outbreak of foot and mouth disease. [17574]

Mr. Morley

When livestock markets reopen strict biosecurity provisions will be laid down which individual markets will have to meet before they will be permitted to operate. These matters are under active discussion between the Department and representatives of the interested parties.