Written question asked by James Paice (Conservative) on Wednesday, 7 July 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 19 July 2004. It was answered by Ben Bradshaw (Labour) on Monday, 19 July 2004 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, what action she is taking to reverse the amendments to EU Regulation 1774/2002 which prevent the import of by-products for use in development of diagnostic techniques and equipment.

Answer: Mr. Paice: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what action she is taking to reverse the amendments to EU Regulation 1774-2002 which prevent the import of by-products for use in development of diagnostic techniques and equipment. [183348] Mr. Bradshaw: The Government fully supports the intention of EU Regulation 1774-2002 to provide effective control on the use and importation of animal by-products. However, we recognise that in the case of certain products of particular importance to the development of diagnostic techniques and equipment, the rules on import may not be fully justified by the risk to animal or public health presented by the products. Following a meeting with industry representatives on 1 July, we have written to the European Commission asking them to reconsider the application of the current import requirements to these products. Officials attending the meeting of the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health on 14 July will also raise the issue. We are keeping industry contacts informed of progress.

Secondary information