asked Her Majesty's Government:

What research and cost analysis the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has undertaken in respect of a possible bluetongue disease outbreak occurring in the United Kingdom. [HL2836]

Defra, in partnership with interested parties, is currently undertaking a cost analysis of potential bluetongue outbreaks and control measures in the United Kingdom, in various scenarios, in order to help to improve our control policy. The control policy is also informed by evolving epidemiological evidence and meteorological data, veterinary advice, and the experience of other European countries in dealing with bluetongue.