To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many veterinary surgeons were employed by the State Veterinary Service on (a) 20 February 2001, (b) 20 February 2002 and (c) 20 February 2003. [103013]

The number of Veterinary Surgeons employed by the State Veterinary Service is as follows:

• As at 20 February 2001–263
• As at 20 February 2002–299
• As at February 2003–335

The figures are calculated on a head count basis and include permanent, casual and fixed term appointments. The figures do not include HQ Veterinary Surgeons responsible for policy development in the Animal Health & Welfare Directorate General.