HC Deb 08 March 1999 vol 327 cc90-1W
Mr. Baker

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on his policy in respect of foie gras production within the EU. [74832]

Mr. Morley

[holding answer 5 March 1999]: We are opposed to the force feeding of ducks and geese to produce foie gras—a practice which is not followed in the United Kingdom. We have therefore been glad to have the opportunity, in the Standing Committee of the European Convention for the Protection of Animals Kept for Farming Purposes, to join in the negotiation of a Recommendation on the welfare of ducks and geese. We are pressing there for the highest standards that can be negotiated, as Recommendations adopted by the Council of Europe in this way subsequently serve as the basis for EU Directives.