HC Deb 27 February 2004 vol 418 cc579-80W
Mr. Gardiner

To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Department for Constitutional Affairs (1) what training(a) has been and (b) is intended to be provided for magistrates and judges on issues of food crime, with particular reference to cases involving illegally imported meat; [155687]

(2) what advice and guidance his Department has issued to magistrates and judges concerning cases of food crime, with particular reference to cases involving illegally imported meat.[155688]

Mr. Bradshaw

I have been asked to reply.

In 2003, The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs produced a case study on illegal imports that was included in the Magistrates' Association training CD.

Defra, HMCE and FSA liaise closely on cases of food crime, and will keep under review the need for further advice, guidance or training.