§ Mr. BlunkettTo ask the Secretary of State for Health whether regulations on food safety are being reconsidered under the Government's new proposals for deregulation.
§ Mr. SackvilleYes. As part of the Government's deregulation initiative and in conjunction with the Department, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food issued the "Food Law Deregulation Plan" on 14 September, copies of which are available in the Library. The plan was drawn up following consultation with industry, enforcers and consumers. Its aim is to move to a less regulatory system of food law by removing from business, requirements that are no longer justified, whilst maintaining essential standards of food safety and consumer protection.