§ Mrs. BrowningTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what discussions he has had with the European Commission concerning the export of hides and skins; and if he will make a statement. [153429]
§ Ms Quin[holding answer 12 March 2001]My officials have had discussions with the European Commission arid other member states on all aspects of the exports of animal products, in the light of the current UK foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. In respect of hides and skins, a significant amendment to the Commission Decision has been negotiated which allows them to be traded without the need for official certification if they have been tanned.