To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has made an assessment of the animal welfare and human health implications of the intensive husbandry practices associated with the use of feedlots at Frans Buitelaar (Farms) Ltd. premises at Claygate farm in Lincolnshire; and if he will make a statement.

The Farm Animal Welfare Council has examined the feedlot system. Its conclusion was that it does not present a welfare risk as long as certain sensible precautions are taken. The state veterinary service has inspected the farm referred to and found no evidence of any unnecessary pain or unnecessary distress in contravention of the Agriculture (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1968. I am not aware of any human health risk associated with the feedlot husbandry system.