andMr. L'Estrange asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will ban the export of animals for research abroad except to States where the regulations governing the use of live animals for experiments give at least the same degree of protection to them as is given by the Cruelty to Animals Act, 1876, in this country.

I have no evidence to justify a ban of the nature mentioned by the Deputies and so I have no plans for the introduction of such a measure. If, however, the Deputies have any helpful information, I should be glad if they would let me have it.

I should add that the possibility of a Council of Europe Convention relating to animals used for laboratory and experimental purposes is to be discussed at a meeting later this year of a "Committee of Experts on the Protection of Animals" under the auspices of the Council of Europe. My Department will, of course, be represented at these discussions.

Is this a new convention under the Council of Europe?

Yes, it is a new convention that is proposed.

I asked a question of the Minister for Health arising from experimentation on animals in relation to plastic bullets and high velocity bullets. Would the Minister's officials, or the Minister if he is going to that convention, bring the attention of that convention to this abuse of civilised standards? It is very important that the House knows that a convention is to be set up.

The Deputy can take it that I will take a responsible attitude.

If the all-party anti-vivisection committee make submissions to the Department and to the Minister, will the Minister take note of those submissions when going to the convention?

Of course.