HC Deb 20 July 1994 vol 247 cc348-9W
Mr. Cash

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries. and Food whether she will make it her policy in future not to introduce bans on herbal products, whether voluntary or compulsory, without first consulting the House.

Mr. Soames

Compulsory bans on foodstuffs can be made by means of orders under existing legislation. Such orders must be approved by Parliament. Voluntary bans on foodstuffs do not have the force of law and are not therefore appropriate for clearance by Parliament.

Mr. Cash

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food for how many years since 1964 comfrey products have been consumed in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Soames

Consumers have been free to choose to consume comfrey products since they have existed. Since March 1993 there has been a voluntary trade withdrawal of certain comfrey products because of their potential to give a high intake of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids. If consumers wish to continue consuming comfrey they may do so in the form of tea made from comfrey leaves as such products were not part of the voluntary withdrawal.