Red Meat Inspection

HC Deb 08 May 1984 vol 59 c334W

Mr. Sims

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has any plans to review the system of red meat inspection in Great Britain.

Mr. Jopling

The Government are aware of the concern felt by various sectors of the meat industry about the present arrangements for the inspection of red meat in slaughterhouses. Accordingly, we have decided to set up a review of red meat inspection in Great Britain, to consider:

1. i. whether any changes are needed in the technical procedures of meat inspection;
2. ii. whether any changes should, without increasing public expenditure, be made in the method of financing; and
3. iii. whether any changes are needed in the organisation of the service.

I am pleased that Sir Peter Preston KCB has agreed to chair the team. I am also pleased to announce that Mr. John Cross and Mr. Charles Runge have agreed to serve as the other two members. The team hopes to complete its work early next year.