HC Deb 13 November 1996 vol 285 cc260-1W
Mr. Steen

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on trends in the levels of imports into the United Kingdom of Argentine beef since 1993; what checks are made at ports of entry for the presence of steroids in such beef; and if he will make a statement. [3787]

Mr. Baldry

Overseas trade statistics for imports of beef from Argentina into the United Kingdom are as follows:

  • 1993: 14,285
  • 1994:1 14,917
  • 1995:1 28,289
  • 1996 to July:1 14,634.
  • All data are in tonnes.

1 Provisional data.

All third countries intending to export animal products to the EU are required to submit plans for residue surveillance for approval by the EU standing veterinary committee. They are also required to submit their results to the Commission as evidence that the surveillance plans are being carried out. Such imports are checked upon entry to verify compliance with animal and public health conditions of import, including conditions relating to steroids. All imports undergo a documentary check. In addition, a percentage are subject to additional identity and physical checks, including checks for prohibited hormones.