§ Miss McIntoshTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received on the importation of hormone-treated beef from the United States of America; and if he will make a statement. [71537]
§ Mr. RookerWe have received a number of representations on the importation of hormone-treated beef from the United States of America. In each case we 189W have provided the assurance that, in line with the European Union (EU) ban on the use of hormone growth promoters in food producing animals, any third country which permits the use of these substances is required to guarantee that no animal, and no meat coming from animals, to which they have been administered will be exported to the EU. Exports for the EU market must be certified accordingly and Commission inspectors verify compliance with all the requirements.