asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the State veterinary service in Northern Ireland.

Despite recruitment difficulties and a general manpower shortage, the Ministry of Agriculture in Northern Ireland continues to provide a satisfactory veterinary service.

What the Minister has said is most encouraging. Is he aware that the same happy story does not exist in England in terms of the State veterinary service? Will he have discussions with his colleagues in the Ministry of Agriculture in England with a view to comparing notes, so that they may learn from the happy experience in Northern Ireland, with particular regard to the conditions of employment of members of the State veterinary service?

The situation is not entirely happy in Northern Ireland. There is a shortfall of about 20. My hon. Friend is correct to say that the Ministry in Northern Ireland has been in touch with the Ministry here, and we are looking into the difficult problem he has put before the House.