§ Mr. RuffleyTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many cases of pig products being sold in a way which misleads the consumer into believing they contain pigmeat of British origin have been identified by the verification officer in the last three years; and how many staff are employed to assist the officer in fulfilling his duties. [130752]
§ Ms QuinOut of the number of labels examined, the verification officer has brought to the attention either of the retailer or the manufacturer concerned over 20 cases considered to be misleading. In most cases the product has been withdrawn or the label altered. Staff resources have not limited his activities as Trading Standards Officers have statutory authority to pursue individuals cases where appropriate.