Diseases of Poultry (England) Order 2003

Veterinary inquiry as to the existence of a designated disease

6.—(1) In order to ascertain whether or not a designated disease exists or has existed on any premises, a veterinary inspector shall—

(a) enter the premises and carry out such inquiries, examinations and tests and take such samples (including live birds and carcases), as are necessary to ascertain whether disease exists or has existed there and, in particular, to establish—

(i) the length of time the disease has existed on the premises,

(ii) the possible origin of the disease on the premises,

(iii) which premises may have been exposed to contamination by the disease from the premises under enquiry, and

(iv) the extent to which a disease has been carried to or from the premises under enquiry; and may

(b) mark, or cause to be marked, for identification purposes any bird, carcase or other thing in relation to which any of the powers under (a) above have been exercised.

(2) Collection of samples and laboratory testing shall be carried out (in relation to avian influenza) in accordance with Annex III of Council Directive 92/40/EEC and (in relation to Newcastle disease and paramyxovirus in pigeons), with Annex III of Council Directive 92/66/EEC.

(3) The occupier or person in charge of the premises or any person in his employment shall provide such reasonable assistance to a veterinary inspector as he may require for the exercise of his powers under paragraphs (1) and (2) above.