Mr. RobertsonTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what were the findings of the SEAC review into the over-thirty-months scheme; and if he will make a statement. [102218]
§ Ms Quin[holding answer 13 December 1999]: The Spongiform Encephalopathy Advisory Committee (SEAC) is not undertaking a review of the over-thirty-months scheme, but of the over-thirty-month rule, 569W which determines those bovines which may be slaughtered for human consumption. The Committee has been considering the issues involved at its meetings throughout 1999. Reports of its deliberations have been the subject of subsequent press briefings by the SEAC Chairman and published in SEAC News Releases. SEAC continued the review at its most recent meeting on 29 November. The normal press briefing will be held, and News Release issued, shortly.