§ Mr. Alan ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to stop the import of meat grown abroad in conditions not allowed in the UK. [76737]
§ Mr. MacdonaldAll consignments of fresh meat imported into the UK, whether from other EU member States or third countries, must have been produced in accordance with the harmonised Community rules laid down in Council Directive 64/433/EEC. Products not subject to Community rules may be imported only if they comply with our national rules. Food which fails to meet food safety requirements can be refused entry into the UK or it can be seized under the Food Safety Act 1990.
Trade implications of any suspension of imports are a matter for the EU Commission. Any action taken or imposed must be in accordance with the sanitary and phytosanitary agreement of the World Trade organisation.
From 1 July 1999, this will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament.