HC Deb 08 March 1999 vol 327 c93W
Mr. Gray

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about the use of antibiotics in imported meats. [74695]

Mr. Rooker

The use of antibiotic feed additives outside the EU and the consequences for imported meats was considered by the Council of Agriculture Ministers and the EU Commission following the recent decision to ban the use of certain antibiotic growth promoters. The Council and Commission issued a joint declaration which emphasises the importance of protecting consumers' health and the need not to prejudice the competitive position of European producers, whilst complying with the Union's international commitments. The Council called for a report from the Commission before 30 June 199 which will examine how to ensure that third countries comply with rules for feed additives, in particular antibiotics, which are at least equivalent to those laid down at Community level.