Written question asked by Barry Gardiner (Labour) on Thursday, 12 February 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 23 February 2004. It was answered by John Healey (Labour) on Monday, 23 February 2004 on behalf of the Treasury.

Treasury

Question: To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, what trials Her Majesty's Customs & Excise has undertaken of x-ray equipment to detect illegal meat imports; and when they took place.

Answer: Mr. Gardiner: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what trials Her Majesty's Customs and Excise has undertaken of x-ray equipment to detect illegal meat imports; and when they took place. [155690] John Healey: Customs have undertaken a number of informal trials using their own x-ray equipment as well as external trials involving developments in x-ray technology offered by other manufacturers. The most recent trials took place in June last year. This is a constantly developing area and Customs remain committed to working with other UK and overseas agencies as well as manufacturers to make the most of new technology where it can provide good value for money.

Secondary information