Written question asked by Gavin Strang (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 17 March 1997. It was answered by Viscount Hailsham (Conservative) on Monday, 17 March 1997 on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food

Question: What assessment he has made of the implications of the recent outbreak of Newcastle's disease for (a) public health and (b) consumer protection.

Answer: Dr. Strang: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assessment he has made of the implications of the recent outbreak of Newcastle disease for (a) public health and (b) consumer protection. [20055] Mr. Hogg: There is no risk to public health from poultry meat which may contain the Newcastle disease virus and, therefore, no consequences for consumer protection. Newcastle disease virus can be spread through the air from infected birds and contact with such birds can occasionally cause conjunctivitis, fever and flu like symptoms in humans. The risk of human infection is low, even when handling birds known to be infected. The Department of Health have been kept fully informed of developments.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 20055; 292 c370W
Session: 1996-97
Subjects: Consumers Diseases Food Poultry Protection Standards Newcastle disease