Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy

HC Deb 21 March 1989 vol 149 cc515-6W

Mr. Ron Davies

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received concerning the risks posed to certain groups of workers by possible contact with bovine spongiform encephalopathy-affected products.

Mr. Donald Thompson

The Ministry has received inquiries from a number of employees' organisations about the possible risks to workers who may come into contact with cattle suspected of being infected with BSE and material from them. Although the evidence is that the risks to human health are remote, the Health and Safety Executive is considering whether additional safety guidelines are necessary for such occupational groups.

Mr. Ron Davies

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what evidence he has concerning the level of infectiousness of bovine spongiform encephalopathy-infected cattle prior to the onset of chronic manifestations of bovine spongiform encephalopathy.

Mr. Donald Thompson

There is no evidence that bovine spongiform encephalopathy can be transmitted from cattle to cattle.