§ Mr. Ralph HowellTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food why he has refused to grant licences for independent scientific tests under proper veterinary supervision to be carried out on flocks found to be infected with salmonella typhimurium and enteritidis.
§ Mr. MacleanA licence may be given for samples to be taken for separate examination if this is requested by the692W flock owner. Decisions to require the slaughter of infected flocks are however based on the results of laboratory examinations carried out by my Department.
§ Mr. Ralph HowellTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether broiler flocks affected by salmonella typhimurium and enteritidis can complete their growing cycle and be processed in the normal way to end up as raw meat in kitchens; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacleanThere is no requirement for broiler birds to be tested for salmonella. Broiler breeder flocks are however required to be tested and, if found to be infected with salmonella enteritidis or salmonella typhimurium, will be slaughtered in order to minimise the risk of infection spreading through the production chain. Advice to consumers has been given on the precautions which should be taken in handling and cooking poultry meat.