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Milk and Dairies (Consolidation) Act, 1915.
Milk and Dairies Order, 1926.
Milk (Special Designations) Order, 1923.
Tuberculosis Order of 1925.
THE REPORT OF THE VETERINARY OFFICER.
The cowsheds and dairy cattle within the borough boundaries
are inspected monthly under the provisions of the Acts and Orders
relating to the milk supply and also as occasion demands under
the Tuberculosis Order; at the same time the hygienic conditions
governing the production of milk are also supervised.
During the year, nine hundred and twenty-two (922) inspections
of cattle were made, and where it appeared desirable,
samples of milk, etc., were taken for microscopical examination.
Twelve samples of milk and seven of sputum were thus taken and
examined for the presence of tubercle bacilli. These measures
resulted in the detection of four cows which came within the scope
of the Tuberculosis Order, and in consequence these cattle were
slaughtered. Two of these were cases of tuberculous infection of
the udder, while two were active cases of pulmonary tuberculosis.
Post-mortem examinations (at which the owner, accompanied
by his Veterinary Surgeon, is entitled to be present) were
conducted to ascertain the correctness of the diagnosis and also
to certify the extent of the infection. Should the animal not be
affected with tuberculosis the owner is entitled to the full value
of his animal plus one pound, but if affected the compensation is
assessed at 75% of the valuation in non-advanced cases, and 25%
in advanced cases as defined by the Order, with a minimum of
thirty (80) shillings. (Prior to October 15th, 1931, the minimum
amount payable was fixed at forty-five (45) shillings.)
Compensation amounting to £56 5s. was thus paid during
the year, 75% of which was borne by the Ministry of Agriculture
and Fisheries ; but in no case was the disease so established that
the minimum amount allowable was awarded. The carcases of
these animals were used, under supervision, for the manufacture
of manures, etc.
The Tuberculosis Order was introduced to permit the destruction
of any bovine animal suffering with tuberculosis in such a
degree as to be a danger to other animals or a source of contamination
to the milk supply. The percentage of milk cattle affected
with tuberculosis is very high, but the majority do not come within
the scope of the Order, although they must be regarded as a
potential source of infection.