HL Deb 09 March 1989 vol 504 cc1690-2WA
Lord Chelwood

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What increases there have been in the prevalence of salmonella and listeriosis since figures were kept, and whether these justify the measures they have taken.

Lord Henley

The table gives an indication of the increase in cases of salmonellosis and listeriosis reported to the Public Health Laboratory Service in recent years: Year Cases of salmonellosis Cases of listeriosis

1983 13,250 115
1984 13,093 115
1985 11,172 149
1986 14,177 137
1987 16,991 259
1988 24,000* 291 (Provisional)
*Provisional reports only-not confirmed cases

Measures were taken in respect of eggs because in 1988 the Public Health Laboratory Service received reports of 60 outbreaks of salmonella food poisoning, involving about 1,600 people, associated with the consumption of eggs. In 1987 there were only six such outbreaks reported.

The advice to pregnant women and other vulnerable groups on listeria was issued after taking expert advice, and following the completion of a study of cooked and chilled ready to eat foods undertaken by the

Public Health Laboratory Service. Her Majesty's Government are satisfied that the measures taken are fully justified.