Written question asked by Paul Flynn (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 5 March 1997. It was answered by Marquess of Lothian (Conservative) on Wednesday, 5 March 1997 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: Pursuant to his Answer, of 17th February, for what reasons the vaccination of poultry against Newcastle disease is normally prohibited in Northern Ireland. - (Holding answer 24 February 1997).

Answer: Mr. Flynn: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, pursuant to his answer of 17 February, for what reasons the vaccination of poultry against Newcastle disease is normally prohibited in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement. [17242] Mr. Ancram: [holding answer 24 February 1997]: Vaccination against Newcastle disease has been prohibited in Northern Ireland until recently because the Province's status as a non-vaccinating area has permitted the prohibition of poultry--other than eggs and day-old chicks--from vaccinating countries. That has helped to prevent the introduction of other poultry diseases from which Northern Ireland has been free. Vaccination also makes it technically difficult to detect and diagnose Newcastle disease if it does occur.

Secondary information