§ Mr. HansonTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) what reports he has received of imports of hormone-implanted beef entering the United Kingdom in the last year; [26275]
(2) when he expects to answer the question of the hon. Member for Delyn for answer on 22 April, ref 26275. [35095]
§ Mrs. BrowningI very much regret that the hon. Member has had to wait so long for a reply.
The import from third countries of meat and meat products derived from animals treated with hormonal growth promoters has been banned since 1988, as has the use of these substances within the European Community. Third countries wishing to import to the Community must submit guarantees to the European Commission regarding their plans for monitoring for these substances. Member states are responsible for implementing and policing the Community ban in respect of their own national production.
We have not received any reports in the last year of the importation of meat derived from animals to which illegal hormones have been administered. The Veterinary Medicines Directorate and the state veterinary service would immediately investigate any such allegations.