Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer (Liberal Democrat). It was answered on Thursday, 13 October 2005.

Avian Flu

Question: My Lords, I thank the Minister for his reply but it is truly worrying. Can he confirm that we are still importing birds from many parts of the world, despite the fact that this flu virus is travelling very fast; and can he further confirm that pet birds and birds for zoos from those parts of the world not covered by the ban do not even have to be quarantined at all; and that, of those that are quarantined, only a small selection are chosen to be tested for avian flu, even though the birds may be carrying that flu and showing no signs? These birds can then go off to pet fairs in the rest of Britain. Does he not think the Government had better seize the opportunity of the UK presidency to introduce a proper EU-wide ban, in the face of a serious threat?

Answer: My Lords, there is a negligible risk from legal trade, due to the EU controls in place. The wild birds allowed in under those controls come from registered holdings in the country of origin, where they are inspected by official vets, and on arrival here are subject to 30 days’ quarantine with compulsory testing for both avian influenza and Newcastle disease. These controls ensure that any infected birds are detected before release. The noble Baroness referred to pet birds. When these birds are brought in, they are effectively under house arrest. They are quarantined in their owner’s home for a period of time, when there is every chance that there will be an inspection of those birds—though not every one of them. A lot of work has been done on this, and we believe that the present bird importation controls are appropriate.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: 674 c408
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: 1st Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Lords chamber
Subjects: Birds Disease control EU external trade Import controls Imports Pets Quarantine Zoos Avian influenza