§ Mr. Canavanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what action he proposes to take to ensure that random samples of fat from beef on sale to the public in central Scotland are analysed for traces of chlorinated halogens, dioxins and furans, in parts per trillion; and whether he will publish the results of such analyses in detail and also in a form accessible and intelligible to the non-scientific general public.
§ Mr. John MacKayThe question of the need for analytical surveys of organic compounds which might pose a hazard to health has been referred to the working party on organic environmental contaminants in food. Such compounds would include halogenated compounds, dioxins and furans. Once I have received the working party's advice I shall consider the need for further action.