Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy

HC Deb 27 June 1996 vol 280 c255W

Mr. Sweeney

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he plans next to publish a report on bovine spongiform encephalopathy. [35203]

Mr. Douglas Hogg

A further report on BSE in Great Britain will be placed in the Library of the House on Monday 1 July. Copies will also be made available at the royal show.

Mr. Hinchliffe

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he is taking to ensure the safe disposal of fleshings from the hide of BSE cull cattle; and if he will make a statement. [33649]

Mrs. Browning

[holding answer 25 June 1996]: The whole bodies, including the hides and fleshings, of cattle confirmed or suspected of having BSE are destroyed.

Fleshings and trimmings from hides of other cattle aged over 30 months must be stained with tartrazine, kept separate from other by-products and removed in a sealed container to either an officially approved rendering plant or an incinerator for destruction.