HC Deb 13 January 1997 vol 288 cc161-2W
Mr. Lidington

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what consultations he has had with representatives of Muslim and Jewish butchers about the draft EC regulation on beef labelling, document 10495/96; and if he will make a statement. [10527]

Mrs. Browning

Representatives from the Board of Deputies of British Jews and the Union of Muslim Organisations of the UK and Eire together with other interested organisations were invited to, and attended, a consultation meeting held by the Ministry on 28 October 1996 to discuss the Commission's proposals for Council regulations on beef labelling.

Mr. Lidington

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what progress he has made in renegotiating the terms of the draft EC regulation on the labelling of beef and beef products since 13 November. [10529]

Mrs. Browning

Since 13 November 1996, the draft proposals have been considered twice at Council working group and by the Special Committee on Agriculture and the Council. Further discussions are not expected to take place until the end of this month at the earliest.

Mr. Lidington

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assessment he has made of the impact of the EC regulation on the labelling of beef and beef products, document 10495/96, as currently drafted on the labelling of meat as kosher and halal; and if he will make a statement. [10528]

Mrs. Browning

The proposal as drafted provides for information on methods of slaughter to be included on beef labels providing that those using such labels can verify that information, to the satisfaction of the relevant competent authority.