§ Mr. George OsborneTo ask the Prime Minister what his role is in relation to authorisation of the use of the armed forces in the event of outbreaks of foot and mouth disease. [76296]
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§ The Prime MinisterDecisions in relation to the deployment of the armed forces would be taken in the normal way. Lead responsibility for dealing with an outbreak of foot and mouth disease remains with DEFRA, and the procedures for involving the armed forces are clearly stated in the Interim Foot and Mouth Disease Contingency Plan.
Cabinet Office Civil Contingencies Secretariat also have a key role in securing a Government-wide co-ordinated response should a disease emergency occur. This is also outlined in the Interim FMD Contingency Plan.