EU seeks to impose infected dogs on Britain

I AM extremely concerned at the news that dogs which could be carrying a parasite (Echinococcus multilocularis), widespread in Europe, may from the end of this year, be allowed into Britain untreated. I first learned of the danger from a radio programme last year.

Infection with Echinococcus multilocularis can remain undetected for 10 to 15 years, causing severe and in most cases fatal liver damage to humans. Once here, it will be impossible to eradicate, as dogs can spread the parasite to foxes, thereby ensuring a reservoir of infection for the dog population. The parasite could then be passed on to humans handling infected dogs. At present, dogs entering this country must be dewormed by a vet before travelling. The European Union has decided, in its efforts to impose conformity on all member countries whatever their local conditions, that we must be compelled to abandon this requirement. At present, we have a derogation (exemption) but this expires at the end of this year and it is quite possible that it may not be renewed.

I cannot believe that Britain, supposedly a sovereign country, can be forced by the EU to lower our standards of health protection. What good will this do us or Europe? Is the European Commission seeking a crazy kind of fairness in making sure that we are all subject to the same diseases?

Britain must stand up for itself for once and simply refuse to obey this absurd and dangerous ruling.