asked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been called to the evidence recently given by one of his officials at Coalville, Leicestershire, to the effect that foot-and-mouth disease might have been caused by tinned meat from the Argentine; and whether he will make a further statement on this subject.

Yes, Sir. Reports of the evidence given by one of my officers in the case referred to may have conveyed a misleading impression. It is known that infection may be carried in frozen and chilled carcases from South America, but I am advised that no apprehension need be felt as regards tinned meat since the process of manufacture would destroy any virus the meat might contain.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there is a considerable opinion that foot-and-mouth disease is largely attributable to cattle grazing on land which has been doped with chemical fertilizers?

That is utterly contrary to all our expert advice.