asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the fact that there have been 7,723 cases of foot-and-mouth disease in Holland during the first four months of this year, he will prohibit all importation of Dutch plants, trees and shrubs until Holland is declared free of foot-and-mouth disease?

Mr. SMITH:

This proposal was considered recently in connection with the general question of whether restrictions should be imposed on the importation of hay and straw used for packing material, and in view of the lack of any definite evidence as to the conveyance of foot-and-mouth disease by such means, my right hon. Friend did not consider that the prohibition of imports of plants from Holland or other countries where foot-and-mouth disease exists would be justified. The question has, however, been referred to the Committee under the Chairmanship of Mr. Pretyman, which is inquiring into the present series of outbreaks, and any further action must await the recommendations of that Committee.

Is the hon. Member aware that the New Zealand Government, the Australian Government and the American Government impose restrictions on goods packed in straw because of the prevalence of foot-and-mouth disease in this country; and, if so, would it not be advisable here to prevent the use of straw for the packing of goods imported from countries where foot-and-mouth disease prevails?

Mr. SMITH:

I can only add that whether or not it is advisable is being considered by the Committee.

Would it not be better to lock the stable door before the steed is stolen, and restrict these articles until the Committee has reported?