§ 25. Mr. Ian BruceTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what support his Department has given to scheme quality certification for British eggs and for the exclusion of imported eggs that do not meet the United Kingdom's anti-salmonella measures.
§ Mr. CurryThis certification scheme is an initiative by Food from Britain, which we welcome. We are also encouraging egg packers and retailers to market "British eggs" positively so that consumers are able to identify, and select, such eggs. As for the banning of imported eggs, we have no evidence that would justify such action at present.
§ 49. Mr. MorganTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about controlling salmonella food poisoning.
§ Mr MacleanControl of salmonella in food is a complex problem. The Government have taken action in areas of particular concern, especially through the adoption of a comprehensive package of measures in relation to salmonella in eggs. The Government have also issued important advice to consumers on the hygienic handling and preparation of food in the home.
§ 64. Mr. AshtonTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many chickens have been officially slaughtered in the current year because his inspectors have found salmonella infection in their eggs.
§ Mr. MacleanThe compulsory slaughter arrangements are based on the testing of birds rather than eggs. Up to 22 December 1989 1,024,149 birds have been slaughtered compulsorily because of the presence of salmonella enteritidis or S. Typhimurium in the flock.