VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Animals: Disease Control

Asked by Jim ShannonDemocratic Unionist PartyDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural AffairsTabled Answered 25 November 2025UIN 91948

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what recent assessment he has made of the adequacy of legislation for animal disease risks.

Answered by Dame Angela Eagle

We have a broad legislative base and associated strategies and contingency plans which enables us to protect animals, including livestock, from disease.

The Animal Health Act 1981, provides the legal framework for controlling and eradicating animal diseases, protecting livestock health, and safeguarding trade. It gives government powers to impose disease control measures, order slaughter of infected animals, regulate movement, and compensate farmers. Secondary legislation is regularly updated as needed.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim