§ Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domerasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they intend to bring forward during the passage of the Animal Health Bill through this House any "important emerging 83WA recommendations" as mentioned in the terms of reference for the inquiry into the lessons to be learned from the 2001 foot and mouth outbreak. [HL2530]
§ Lord WhittyThe provisions in the Animal Health Bill relating to disease control are part of the Government's response to issues raised by the 2001 outbreak that can be swiftly and effectively addressed by adding to and strengthening existing legislation. Should Dr Anderson's lessons learned inquiry publish interim recommendations before the Bill has completed its passage through the House of Lords, the Government would consider whether any amendments should be made to the Bill.
When the two independent inquiries, set up in August 2001, have reported later this year, the Government will consider what measures need to be taken to implement recommendations relevant to the prevention and control of animal diseases. Further legislation will be brought forward, if it is needed.