§ Mr. Ron DaviesTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment whether he has yet received any advice from362W the Health and Safety Executive concerning safety measures for workers in the slaughtering and butchery trade who may come into contact with bovine spongiform encephalopathy-infected products.
§ Mr. NichollsThe Health and Safety Executive's field staff is available to give advice to employers and employees when necessary on any health risks associated with cattle, their carcases and their products which may be infected with bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). I understand that, in the light of the report of the Southwood working party on BSE, the executive has established a task force on occupational zoonoses (ie diseases which may be transmissable from animals to man). As part of its remit, the task force is considering what further action may be necessary in respect of occupational health and safety aspects of BSE.
§ Mr. Ron DaviesTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment what guidance currently exists to occupational groups involved with handling of cattle or cattle products in the light of bovine spongiform encephalopathy.
§ Mr. NichollsAdvice on safety precautions to be taken has been issued to the Health and Safety Executive's inspectors for dissemination either on request or during the course of their visits to those dealing with cattle and animal products. It covers basic hygiene principles which are considered appropriate for bovine spongiform encephalopathy.