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Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Answer

Mr. Luff: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what steps were taken to ensure that farmers were aware (a) of the law surrounding slaughter of animals as a result of foot and mouth disease control and (b) of their rights relating to property prior to the slaughter of their animals; and if she will make a statement. [45] Mr. Morley: The Animal Health Act 1981 provides the powers to require the slaughter of any animals affected with foot and mouth disease, or suspected of being infected. It also sets the rate of compensation. The Department took a number of steps to inform farmers of the policies being pursued to eradicate foot and mouth, including letters, the provision of information via the internet and the establishment of a helpline. Veterinary staff and other DEFRA staff in disease control centres throughout the country are available to provide any explanation required by the owner of an infected premises. Owners of infected premises will have the range of movement and other restrictions explained to them. Farmers are also made aware of their rights regarding procedures for disputed valuations. Of course, up to the point where the animals are slaughtered, responsibility for the care and welfare of the animals rests with their owner.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

45; 372 c387-8W;372 c388W

Session

2001-02

Subjects

Disclosure of information Compensation Law Disease control Foot and mouth disease Farmers

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk