28. Mr. Gareth ThomasTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what measures his Department is considering undertaking for the long-term health of consumers and the safety of the environment. [2919]
§ Mr. MorleyThe Department is committed to placing protection of the public first. To that end, my officials are working in close consultation with colleagues in the Department of Health and other Departments to prepare for the establishment of a Food Standards Agency. The Agency will be responsible for assuring public health in all matters of food safety policy.
At the same time we are also taking a number of initiatives to drive up meat hygiene standards in abattoirs. Poor hygiene practices will not be tolerated and the Regulations will be enforced vigorously.
The Department has a number of measures in place to protect the environment and is considering whether further measures are necessary. Existing measures include strict approval arrangements for pesticides, Codes of Practice on protecting air, water and soil, and voluntary incentive schemes to promote environmentally friendly farming.
The Government also aims to secure reform of the CAP to reduce food prices, save money and provide more targeted support for the rural economy and enhancing the rural environment.