§ Mrs. Ann WintertonTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many drop-offs will be allowed by her Department from a single auction pick-up of cattle moving through market; what checks will be made by divisional veterinary managers on farms seeking qualification for multiple drop-offs; and when she intends to make an announcement. [46385]
§ Mr. MorleyAt present, multiple drop offs are only permitted from a market if(a) stock are being dropped off at slaughterhouses only or (b) for cattle only, if they are moved to no more than five farms.
1031WA Veterinary Inspector will check to ensure that anyone applying for their premises to be a drop off point understands the conditions linked to approval and to ensure that the premises are capable of meeting the standards set. For example, he must be satisfied that suitable cleansing and disinfection facilities are available and that there are sufficient gates and hurdles to prevent animals escaping during the unloading process.
Further details of the conditions that apply to multiple pick-ups and drop offs are available at: www.defra.gov.uk/footandmouth/movementsitransport/index.htm.