§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he is taking on the three reports he is studying on the effects of chlorine on food and drink.
§ Mr. RyderI assume that the question refers to the possible occurrence of dioxins in food as a result of migration from paper-based packaging materials made from wood pulp bleached with chlorine.
The data currently available indicate that the levels of dioxins in feed are extremely small and do not pose a hazard to health. However, as I indicated in an earlier answer to the hon. Member, my Department is presently carrying out a thorough investigation into this issue, including a programme of laboratory analysis. When the reports referred to are completed, we shall decide what further action is necessary.