HC Deb 19 October 1971 vol 823 cc534-5
17. Mr. Raphael Tuck

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether, in view of the regulation that all imports of poultry, meat and offal will have to be accompanied by official veterinary certification as to the health of the birds from which the meat or offal is derived, he will take steps to arrange for similar certification to be demanded in respect of home-produced poultry.

Mr. Anthony Stodart

Overseas veterinary certification of imports of poultry meat is required to prevent the introduction of poultry diseases, especially those exotic to this country. There is not the same need for the certifying of domestic production. Public health considerations are a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Social Services.

Mr. Tuck

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that the enormous outbreaks of fowl pest, the high incidence of mareks disease and infectious bronchitis, and also of food poisoning can all be traced to home-reared chickens? Does not the Minister think that in future consumers will prefer to buy imported chickens, for which a certificate of health is required? If that were to happen, would it not have a damaging effect on the home industry?

Mr. Stodart

I do not think so. As regards fowl pest, it is forbidden to move infected birds off farms, and under the Food and Drugs Act local authorities have powers to examine all food, including poultry carcases, for human consumption. I think, therefore, that the safeguards are adequate.

Mr. Wellbeloved

Will the hon. Gentleman give particular attention to the health of pigeons, as we are concerned about the exotic diet of his right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture?

Mr. Stodart

I think that my right hon. Friend looks very well on what I understand is the grapefruit diet.