Written question asked by Michael Jack (Conservative) on Monday, 17 November 1997, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 20 November 1997. It was answered by Lord Cunningham of Felling (Labour) on Thursday, 20 November 1997 on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food

Question: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, what is the cost to public funds of producing each cattle identification document; and how many were issued in the last year for which figures are available.

Answer: Mr. Jack: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the cost to public funds of producing each cattle identification document; and how many were issued in the last year for which figures are available. [17004] Dr. John Cunningham: Cattle Identification Documents (CIDs) are issued only in respect of male cattle; cattle passports have been a requirement for all cattle born after 1 July 1996. As they form an integral part of the Beef Special Premium Scheme, it is not an easy matter to identify separately the costs relating to CIDs. However, taking account of relevant development, capital, maintenance and staff expenditure, our best estimate is that each one issued to date by the Department has cost in the region of £1.88. A total of 1,034,552 were issued in England in 1996.

Secondary information