Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the imposition of mandatory housing measures for poultry and other captive birds on 7 November, what plans they have, if any, to take further measures to restrict the spread of avian influenza.

The prevention measures introduced through the Avian Influenza Prevention Zones, including addition of mandatory housing measures and changes to bird gatherings general licence, are introduced in a phased and escalating manner proportionate to the escalating risk to an area and may be introduced on a regional or national basis depending on the epidemiological situation.

We continue to monitor the current situation both in Europe and globally, as well as the effectiveness of any disease control measures taken. Any future decisions on disease control measures will be based upon the latest scientific, ornithological, and veterinary advice.