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Question
The MP questions if there are plans to introduce similar restrictions in Wales and Scotland, given the scale of the outbreak and its impact on migratory birds. He also asks about compensation for small producers who suffer losses.
Minister reply
The Minister confirms discussions with devolved administrations regarding uniform measures across all nations. Regarding compensation for smaller producers, he assures that efforts are being made to provide clearer entitlement guidelines and swifter payments.
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Question
The MP inquires about the financial impact of avian influenza on producers and whether there are plans for additional support measures, such as grants or loans.
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledges the significant financial pressure on producers and emphasises that compensation schemes will offer certainty and swifter payments. He also mentions ongoing discussions to explore further support mechanisms.
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Question
The MP raises concerns about the impact of avian influenza on tourism, particularly in coastal areas where birdwatching is a major attraction. He asks if there are any plans to mitigate this impact.
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledges the concern and stresses that biosecurity measures will be key to controlling the disease spread. While direct support for tourism isn't currently planned, DEFRA aims to minimise disruption to all sectors affected.
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Question
The MP criticises the delay in announcing a full bird housing order and questions the compensation scheme's costs. He highlights the shortage of vets and catchers, asking about vacancy rates at APHA and its impact on issuing export certificates. The MP also queries the impact on food supplies and vaccines.
Minister reply
The Minister states that they are led by science and veterinary advice, working closely with devolved Administrations to address the issue. He confirms there is sufficient capacity within DEFRA vets service but acknowledges pressure. The Minister reassures about food supply networks for turkeys at Christmas and discusses vaccine challenges.
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Question
The MP thanks the Minister for his update on avian flu, expressing concern for farmers and vets involved. He emphasises the need to adequately staff and resource APHA to protect animal health and biosecurity.
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledges the importance of adequate staffing and resources at APHA but confirms they have sufficient capacity to handle the challenge.
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Question
The MP thanks the Minister for his statement, expressing concern over the impact of avian flu on Scotland's iconic bird colonies. He inquires about further measures short of mandatory housing and discusses engagement with the Scottish Government.
Minister reply
The Minister confirms close cooperation with the Scottish Government at various levels to mitigate risks, acknowledging the tragic loss of wild birds but emphasising ongoing monitoring.
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Question
The MP thanks the Minister for his statement and seeks clarification on compensation arrangements. He asks about 'freeze and thaw' measures next autumn to give farmers confidence to invest in birds for Christmas 2023.
Minister reply
The Minister confirms efforts to assist farmers through early compensation and emphasises the importance of biosecurity to prevent disease spread.
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Question
The MP raises concerns about the shortage of vets and their availability to contain avian flu.
Minister reply
The Minister confirms full confidence in having sufficient vet capacity but acknowledges the mental health impact on farmers due to disease-related losses.
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Question
Welcomed improvements to compensation arrangements and urged the Minister to extend them to birds that have already died prior to notification by vets. Asked for flexibility on labelling of free-range eggs due to housing requirements. Inquired about urgency in vaccine development and engagement with retailers.
Minister reply
Moved date for compensation scheme to earliest possible date, explained current law allows 16 weeks from second bird housed before labelling change is required. Emphasised vaccination efforts but need time for scientific research.
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Question
Asked about support, including compensation, for poultry farmers directly and indirectly affected by avian flu outbreak. Questioned delay in imposing mandatory housing order.
Minister reply
Acknowledged impact of disease on livelihoods, moved forward compensation scheme to assist cash flow and receive payments quicker. Cannot pay for consequential losses further down the line.
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Question
Called for assistance from trained wildlife volunteers and rescue charities to help with clear-up operation due to reports of dead swans in rivers.
Minister reply
Confirmed Norfolk, north Essex, Suffolk at epicentre. Public can report sightings to track spread.
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Question
Asked about additional resources for testing rapid diagnosis and quick action on farms.
Minister reply
Current belief is that sufficient resource available; compensation begins once disease identified.
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Question
Inquired about steps being taken to ensure public know what actions to take if they come across sick or dead birds.
Minister reply
Advised against interfering with dead birds, report sightings to local authority.
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Question
Noted two confirmed avian flu outbreaks in his constituency and one at a wildlife refuge. Suggested need for UK-wide approach including Republic of Ireland.
Minister reply
Agreed on international challenge; will discuss with OECD later this week.
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Question
Welcomed measures relating to compensation earlier in process. Asked about discussions with Scottish Government and implementation of housing order measure.
Minister reply
Noted ongoing disease levels over summer period; wild bird population poses risk from north pole.
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Question
Asked for assurance that co-ordination is happening not just at official level but ministerial level.
Minister reply
Committed to keeping door open to colleagues from across the UK; chief veterinary officers meet regularly.
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Question
We have already had avian flu in Newcastle-under-Lyme, following an outbreak in Kidsgrove. I welcome the Minister's statement and what he is doing to address the increasing numbers of cases and the compensation scheme set out today. Will he also provide information on the risk to public health from the UK Health Security Agency and the food safety status of poultry products and eggs?
Minister reply
I can be absolutely categorical: there is no identified risk to human health, as confirmed by continuous monitoring. The Food Standards Agency assures us that there are high levels of food safety in place, with no impact on public health.
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Question
The spread of avian flu is rife among wild birds. How can we ensure that the virus does not transfer between wild and domestic bird populations?
Minister reply
Biosecurity measures are the primary tool available to prevent the spread, but it's challenging as the disease continues in wild populations. We hope nature will find a resolution through natural immunity.
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Question
Stanley Park in Blackpool has been affected by avian flu, with 40% of its swan population dying last winter. What steps is his Department taking to raise awareness about this issue and what should the public do if they suspect a case?
Minister reply
The public should avoid interfering with dead birds as it can inadvertently spread the virus. Dead birds can be reported either to DEFRA or local authorities to help identify disease spread.
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Question
What measures are in place for Northern Ireland's poultry industry if avian flu enters commercial flocks? Are there adequate resources and compensation available, and will it be paid promptly?
Minister reply
We have sufficient resources to address the challenges, including bringing forward compensation payments. However, farmers prioritise preventing outbreaks over receiving compensation through stringent biosecurity measures.
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Question
My constituents are concerned about compensation for poultry farmers affected by avian flu in recent months. How has APHA guidance on earlier availability of compensation been improved since 1 October?
Minister reply
The rules have not changed since 1 October; they were updated last week, backdated to 1 October. I can provide the hon. Member with a detailed sheet outlining current advice for farmers.