British officials were attempting to contain an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease yesterday and avoid any repeat of mass infections that devastated the rural economy in 2001, while biosecurity experts investigated a suspected link between the cases and a vaccine laboratory.

Environment Secretary Hilary Benn said a report by the country's Health and Safety Executive inspectors is expected within 48 hours, and confirmed inquiries were focused on a research facility.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown - who broke off a vacation to handle the response - hosted talks at his London office and chaired a meeting of the government's crisis committee after two cows tested positive for the disease.