§ Mr. Welshasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to ensure that enough inspectors are available in the Highlands during the deer stalking season to comply with recent German health regulations which stipulate that venison must be inspected within 16 hours of being killed; and what initiatives he is taking to alter this regulation.
§ Mr. William RossOfficials of my Department have been in close touch with the game industry about the requirements and effects of the West German regulations, including those relating to veterinary inspection within 24 hours of110W slaughter. I understand that the industry has set up a working party to examine further the problems involved in complying with the regulations.
Her Majesty's Government have made representations to the West German Government about the short notice given and the effect of its action on our export trade. However, in the absence of any EEC directive on intra-community trade in game, the West German Government are within their rights in imposing their own requirements on the standard of hygiene for venison intended for consumption in that country.