asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if there is any likelihood that importation of cat and dog food could introduce foot and mouth disease into this country; and, if so, if he will take steps to prohibit such imports.

The importation of cat and dog food containing meat or animal offal is prohibited except under licence. The issue of such licences has been suspended since the 25th October, 1967, as a precaution against the introduction of foot and mouth disease.

Could the Parliamentary Secretary tell me if there were imports since the outbreak of foot and mouth?

There could not be. All licences were withdrawn or suspended as a result of the precautions taken by the Department and there is not at present any valid licence for such importations.

The Parliamentary Secretary mentioned some date in October?

The 25th.

Prior to that, there was foot and mouth disease in Britain.

The date of suspension of all licences is 25th October.

Were there imports between the time of the first outbreak of foot and mouth disease and 25th October?

There could have been.

Is there any danger involved in the use of those that were imported?

These imports are all the time allowed in under clear certification from the veterinary authorities under the Department of Agriculture in England that the meats have been properly cooked and processed and that the maximum care is taken to ensure that there is no deterioration so that no danger is involved. As an extra precaution, a complete ban on the importation of such foods has been imposed.

It must have been thought that there was some danger prior to this when the Minister thought it necessary to ban them.

The Department has made assurance doubly sure.

If the Department is fully satisfied there is no risk.