Written question asked by Tam Dalyell (Labour) on Monday, 16 November 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 19 November 1998. It was answered by Calum Macdonald (Labour) on Thursday, 19 November 1998 on behalf of the Scottish Office.

Scottish Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what representations he has had from pig farmers about labelling of Scottish-produced bacon; and what action he is taking in respect of country of origin (a) labelling and (b) packing.

Answer: Mr. Dalyell: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has had from pig farmers about labelling of Scottish-produced bacon; and what action he is taking in respect of country of origin (a) labelling and (b) packing. [60405] Mr. Macdonald: My noble Friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Lord Sewel has met industry representatives, including pig farmers, on a number of occasions since the collapse in prices in the pig sector. Labelling home-produced bacon and pork was one of the issues discussed. There is no EU legislation governing the labelling of pigmeat. However, under the Food Safety Act 1990 it is an offence to falsely describe a food or make misleading descriptions as to the nature, substance or quality of the food. The information on the food label must also meet the labelling requirement in the Food Labelling (Scotland) Regulations 1984. Food must be labelled with particulars of its place of origin, if failure to give such particulars might mislead a purchaser as to the true origin of the food. The presence of this legislation allows home-produced bacon and pork to be identified to consumers at retail level. The Government are discussing with major retailers, wholesalers and caterers how best to ensure that the consumer can exercise choice.

Secondary information