§ Mr. LuffTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if beef over 30 months old from(a) Argentina, (b) Australia, (c) Botswana, (d) Brazil, (e) Mauritius, (f) Namibia, (g) New Zealand, (h) Paraguay, (i) Poland, (j) South Africa, (k) Switzerland, (l) Uruguay, (m) the USA and (n) Zimbabwe is considered safe for importation into and sale in the UK on animal health grounds; and if he will make a statement. [156381]
§ Ms Quin[holding answer 30 March 2001]: The over-30-months rule relates solely to BSE risks and beef from animals aged over thirty months at slaughter may be imported from the countries listed as it is not considered to represent a BSE risk. The age of animals at slaughter is not relevant in respect of other animal diseases.
§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what measures are being taken at border inspection points to ensure that requirements are being met with regard to the importation of meat. [160920]
§ Ms QuinUnder EU law all meat imported from third countries into the UK must enter at designated UK Border Inspection Posts (BIP) where it is subject to veterinary inspections. The inspection services at the BIP are the responsibility of the local authority. All consignments are subject to documentary and identity checks and at least 20 per cent. of consignments are subject to physical checks in accordance with EU legislation. Each BIP's performance is monitored by MAFF on a regular basis and subject to inspection by the European Commission to ensure these standards are met.