§ Mr. Frank Cookasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what action will be taken against the Imperial Group of companies or its subsidiaries over the importation of irradiated prawns into Britain in April 1985; and what action he will take to prevent further importing of irradiated foods.
§ Mr. WhitneyResponsibility for enforcement of the Food (Control of Irradiation) Regulations 1967 as amended, which prohibit the importation and marketing of irradiated foods intended for sale for human consumption, is vested in port health and local authorities. Dover port health authority may be the relevant authority in this case and is investigating the allegation made. The extent to which controls are needed on the importation of irradiated foods will be reviewed by Ministers in the light of the "Report on the Safety and Wholesomeness of Irradiated Foods", which is to be published soon, and of the comments received on it.