HC Deb 09 May 1996 vol 277 cc217-8W
Ms Walley

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what discussions he has had with the meat manufacturing/processing industry in respect of compensation for losses related to BSE; and if he will make a statement. [24102]

Mrs. Browning

I have been asked to reply.

My right hon. Friend and I have had extensive discussions with all sectors of the meat industry about the difficulties they are currently facing.

It is not the Government's policy to offer compensation to businesses for losses associated with the BSE scare. The assistance which has been made available is intended to keep open the essential links in the beef supply chain while businesses adapt to the new circumstances.