Volume 4: The Southwood Working Party, 1988-89
3. Response to the first meeting
Response to interim recommendations

3.8 On 12 July 1988 Mr Andrews was able to write to Sir Richard confirming that the Government had accepted the Working Party's recommendation of a slaughter and incineration policy and agreed that compulsory slaughter of affected animals, with compensation up to 50 per cent of market value, would be introduced as soon as possible. The Working Party had made no recommendation as to the amount of compensation and some of them, at least, had reservations as to whether 50 per cent would suffice to ensure that farmers resisted the temptation to send animals showing symptoms off to slaughter. Mr Andrews also informed Sir Richard that he and Sir Donald agreed that there was a good case for setting up a body to coordinate and advise on research work and were in discussion about detailed arrangements. ¹