Martin raises concerns about the effect of EU Regulations over horsemeat scandal
Martin expressed concerns to the Environment Secretary that his hands maybe tied because of European regulation. It would be far better if the UK could determine for itself which countries it imported meat from.
Martin Vickers (Cleethorpes) (Con): My constituents were horrified to hear of the circuitous route taken by some of the contents of everyday products before they arrive on the shop shelves. The Secretary of State rightly drew attention to the high quality of British beef and other products. Is he able to restrict the import of foreign products, or is he himself restricted by European legislation?
Mr Paterson: I am happy to make clear that the only grounds on which we could talk to the Commission about a ban on the import of any product would relate to food safety, and to content that might be injurious to human health. Commissioner Borg has made clear that if we did come across a product that could present a risk to food safety, he would react very rapidly.