Written question asked by Baroness Miller of Chilthorne Domer (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Warner (Labour) on Wednesday, 3 May 2006.

Food

Question: With regard to the vote in the European Parliament on the common position on the proposed European Community regulation on nutrition and health claims made on food in March (a) whether they support the outcome of the vote; and (b) whether they will support the motion in the plenary vote in May.

Answer: The United Kingdom Government were a party to the Council’s common position discussed and voted upon in March by the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety Committee of the European Parliament. In common with other member states, the UK could not support all the proposed amendments. Negotiations to resolve differences continue between the Parliament and Council. The Government could support the motion in the Parliament’s plenary vote if it reflects agreement of a proportionate measure which protects consumers without imposing undue burdens on small businesses.

Secondary information