Written question asked by Andrew George (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 22 February 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 1 March 2005. It was answered by Ben Bradshaw (Labour) on Tuesday, 1 March 2005 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, when she expects the Date Based Export Scheme to be lifted. - (Holding answer 25 February 2005).

Answer: Andrew George: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she expects the Date Based Export Scheme to be lifted. [218367] Mr. Bradshaw: [holding answer 25 February 2005]: Before beef export restrictions can be eased, there will need to be a further inspection visit from the EU's Food and Veterinary Office to check our BSE controls and our testing arrangements, a proposal from the European Commission to amend EU legislation, and agreement by other EU member states. Changes in export restrictions for beef from cattle born on or after 1 August 1996 are not expected before late 2005.

Secondary information