HC Deb 27 October 1998 vol 318 cc153-4W
Mr. Hancock

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received concerning the European Union classification of horses as food-producing animals. [55806]

Mr. Rooker

I have received representations from the British Equine Veterinary Association, the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe and individual horse owners. Under European law, the horse is classified as a food producing animal. However, the Government have been guided by a statement by European Commission officials that, if a horse is not destined for human consumption, maximum residue limits are not required. It would of course be a requirement that the product should be clearly marked as not to be used on any horse that might be intended for human consumption.

Mr. Hancock

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assessment he has made of the numbers and types of veterinary medicines used for horses which do not currently have a maximum residual limit; and what estimate he has made of the proportion which will not have a submitted MRL by 1 January 2000. [55807]

Mr. Rooker

There are 244 veterinary medicinal products authorised for use in horses in the United Kingdom containing a variety of active ingredients. 197 active ingredients for use in horses have been evaluated under the MRL Regulations. Under European law, the horse is classified as a food producing animal. However, the Government have been guided by a statement by European Commission officials that, if a horse is not destined for human consumption, maximum residue limits are not requried.

This aid has provided substantial additional assistance to the livestock sector. As we indicated at the time, it was an exceptional response to exceptional circumstances.

Nevertheless, recognising the difficulties being faced by the industry we are maintaining close contact with the farming unions and other interested organisations and keeping the situation under review.

Mr. Hancock

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food which drugs used to support blood pressure during anaesthesia used in the United Kingdom for horses do not currently have a submitted maximum residual level; how many he expects to have a MRL by 1 January; and how many presently have a submitted MRL. [55804]

Mr. Rooker

There is no veterinary medicinal product authorised in the United Kingdom to support blood pressure during anaesthesia of horses. Applications for authorisation should be submitted to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate and would be assessed against statutory criteria for safety, quality and efficacy.