HC Deb 11 February 1998 vol 306 cc271-2W
Mr. Gordon Prentice

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many butchers have been(a) cautioned and (b) prosecuted for selling beef on the bone; and if he will make a statement. [28004]

Mr. Rooker

Enforcement of the prohibition on the sale of bone-in beef by butchers is the responsibility of local authorities. I am not aware that any butchers have been cautioned or prosecuted for such sales although I understand the Procurator Fiscal is currently considering a possible prosecution in Scotland. Normal practice would be to take legal action only after warnings and advice had been given. Local authorities are enforcing the law, and I expect them to continue to do so.