§ Mr. MitchellTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what controls operate on imports from(a) the EU and (b) elsewhere on materials likely to be used in animal feedstuffs; what provisions allow prohibition of imports capable of carrying viruses which are a threat to human, animal and plant health; what provisions exist within the rules of the World Trade Organisation permitting such national prohibition; and which persons from (i) the European Commission and (ii) Her Majesty's Government represent the United Kingdom interests at the World Trade Organisation in these matters. [154951]
488W
§ Ms QuinEU law governs Community production of materials likely to be used in animal feedstuffs and sets down the import conditions, which must be met by third countries approved to export such products into the Community. EU law also provides for safeguard measures to be applied to imports of animal products and plants when there is a risk to human, animal or plant health. Under World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules animal health requirements for trade are expected to be based on the international standards laid down by the Office International des Epizooties. Any provisions in excess of these rules would need to be supported by a risk assessment in relation to animal or public health. Directorate General SANCO of the European Commission, who are based in Brussels, represent all EU member states, including Her Majesty's Government, in WTO fora.