Written question asked by David Hinchliffe (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 24 April 1996. It was answered by Baroness Browning (Conservative) on Wednesday, 24 April 1996 on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food

Question: What assessment his Department carried out into Professor Harash Narang's test for BSE in live cattle; and what were the results.

Answer: Mr. Hinchliffe: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assessment his Department carried out into Professor Harash Narang's test for BSE in live cattle; and what were the results.[23228] Mr. Ainger: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what conclusion was reached by his Department on the efficacy of the live test for BSE in cattle developed by Harash Narang; when the test was evaluated; and if he will make a statement.[23354] Mrs. Browning: [holding answers 28 and 29 March 1996]: MAFF is aware of reports in the media that Dr. Narang is working to develop a test to detect BSE in live cattle. No details of such a test have been published in an independent, peer reviewed scientific journal, the usual way for validating such claims. The Department has also asked Dr. Narang for details of his test so that its efficacy and usefulness can be evaluated; he has so far refused to provide any details.

Secondary information