asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many herds are taking part in the Brucellosis Incentive Scheme; and what proportion this represents of all herds.

At the end of October 1971, 45,166 herds were taking part in the Brucellosis Incentives Scheme, representing 22·6 per cent. of the total number of herds and 30·2 per cent. of all cattle in Great Britain.

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make immediate payments of compensation for reactors in the brucellosis eradication areas.

Yes. Payments for reactors are being made as soon as the herd owner has joined the Area Eradication Scheme now in operation and has provided evidence that the animals have been slaughtered.

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is satisfied that experience of the Brucellosis Incentive Scheme shows that the premiums for beef and dairy cows are correctly balanced; and if he will make a statement.

The increased rates of incentives were introduced only on 1st April, 1971, but on the basis of experience since that date the proportions of dairy and beef herds now coming into the Scheme reflect very closely the proportions of these herds in Great Britain.