HC Deb 28 February 1996 vol 272 cc587-8W
Mr. Cox

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what discussions he has had during the last month with the German Government as to the existing ban on the import of British beef; and if he will make a statement. [16322]

Mrs. Browning

I deeply regret the action taken by some German lander in banning the import of British beef. This clearly breaches Germany's EC obligations and is an unacceptable restriction on British trade.

My right hon. Friend wrote to the German Agriculture and Health Ministers earlier this month to protest against the bans and to seek an assurance that urgent action is being taken to ensure compliance by the lander with the Community rules on trade in beef. My right hon. Friend also wrote to Commissioner Fischler about this matter and discussed it with him on 20 February. The Commission has started the process necessary to commence infringement proceedings against Germany.