Written question asked by Lord Steel of Aikwood , in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 10 June 1996. It was answered by Baroness Browning (Conservative) on Monday, 10 June 1996 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: What administrative reforms would be required if the six month quarantine system for pets were replaced by a vaccine based system.

Answer: Sir David Steel: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what administrative reforms would be required if the six month quarantine system for pets were replaced by a vaccine-based system; and if he will make a statement.[31312] Mrs. Browning: I have been asked to reply. The present rules on quarantining of pet animals are set out in the Rabies (Importation of Dogs, Cats and Other Mammals) Order 1974. Any changes would require amendment to that order. Any vaccine-based scheme would need to be founded on proper vaccination before exposure to rabies infection, satisfying a blood test, conclusive identification and evidence of residency. A new system for processing applications as well as inspection arrangements to ensure that the rules were properly complied with would need to be put in place.

Secondary information