§ Mr. Roperasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he intends to introduce the protein processing order covering animal foodstuffs.
§ Mr. StrangThe order will be made after discussions with the trade and other interests have been concluded. Matters still to be finalised include the need for import controls, and levels of fees for licensing and testing.
§ Mr. Roperasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to what extent the introduction of the protein processing order covering foodstuffs for poultry will be an important step in reducing the presence of salmonella among the poultry population; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. StrangI am hopeful that the order will significantly reduce the incidence of not only salmonella among poultry but also the causal organisms of other diseases capable of being spread or recycled in feeding stuffs for both livestock and poultry.
§ Mr. Roperasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will raise with the Commission of the European Communities the possibility of Community legislation covering protein for poultry foodstuffs as a health measure.
§ Mr. StrangWe are keeping the Commission informed of our proposals for protein processing generally. But it would be premature to urge community legislation at this stage.