This volume includes: a chronology of BSE starting from 1732 when scrapie was first recorded in sheep; a summary of the spread of BSE 1985-88; statistics; uses made of the cattle carcass; ministerial charts; DH and MAFF organisational charts; a glossary, a Who's Who and a detailed index of the report.

This is a narrative volume in which the BSE Inquiry examines in detail different aspects of the BSE story. The format that is adopted is to separate the summary of the primary facts from the discussion of the issues raised by them. The intention is that this and other volumes will provide a detailed explanation for conclusions that are expressed in volume 1 of the report, 'Findings and Conclusions'. This volume starts with the identification of the emergence of BSE and goes on to cover the introduction of the ruminant feed ban, compulsory slaughter with compensation of all BSE suspects, and notification of the ruminant feed ban to other countries. It thus includes what many consider to be the most significant measures that were taken to address the dangers posed by BSE to animal health and human health. Steps taken to address the risks from bovine sourced medicinal products for both humans and animals began during this period. Separate chapters are devoted to: the identification of a new disease in cattle; dissemination of information; epidemiology; the ruminant feed ban; and, human health implications, notification, and slaughter and compensation. The final chapter in this volume goes beyond July 1998 and considers the notification of the ruminant feed ban to other countries. As these chapters are by theme this volume does not follow a comprehensive chronology