Foot and Mouth Disease 2025-05-08
2025-05-08
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
Northern Ireland faces the risk of foot and mouth disease entering from Slovakia and Hungary where confirmed cases exist. The Agriculture Minister in Northern Ireland no longer has responsibility for this issue which now falls under the Environment Secretary.
What practical steps is the Minister taking to protect Northern Ireland farmers, especially in regard to the recent announcement of a case of African swine fever on 2 May in Slovakia, within the same geographical area as those foot and mouth outbreaks?
We work closely with the Minister in Northern Ireland for exactly the reasons that he would expect. We take this extremely seriously. There are a range of threats in Europe, and that is why we have not only put in place the long-established and well-trialled measures but added additional protection measures to ensure that we are properly protected.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The veterinary market in the UK is dominated by large companies, leading to concerns about competition and the outdated Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966.
Farmers in Northern Ireland who fear foot and mouth, and even dog owners like me, rely on good veterinary support, but this is no longer the world of James Herriot; a number of large companies dominate the market. The Competition and Markets Authority says that remedies are needed. Does the Minister agree, and will he commit to reviewing the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, which is clearly no longer fit for purpose?
My hon. Friend makes an important point. I can assure him that I and Baroness Hayman, who leads on this in the Department, are very well aware of the recent reports and the antiquated nature of the legislation. We will come back with proposals in due course.
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Assessment & feedback
While acknowledging the issue, the Minister did not commit to a specific timeline or concrete actions for reviewing the act.
Response accuracy