§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what quality tests have taken place since 1 December 1989 on Perrier water for consumer protection; and on what dates they took place.
§ Mr. MacleanFollowing the discovery of traces of benzene in Perrier water in the United States of America tests on United Kingdom supplies were undertaken on behalf of the Food Safety Directorate between 12 and 15 February. The results were made available in the form of news release 67/90 on 15 February. A copy has been placed in the Library of the House.
Enforcement of the Natural Mineral Waters Regulations 1985 is the responsibility of local authorities. In addition the responsible authority in the water's country of origin is required to carry out periodic checks to ensure continued compliance with the terms of the original regulations of the water under the directive by that authority. Information on any quality tests undertaken by that authority is not required to be circulated.