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Answering member
X
Baroness Beckett
Type
House
Session
Year
Department
Member
More
Primary member
More
Answering member
More
Beckett, Baroness (76)
Legislative stage
Legislation
Subject
More
Publisher
Lead member
James Paice
Answering member
Baroness Beckett
Department
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Urgent questions
Subjects
Administration; Agriculture; EU law; Farmers; Payments; Subsidies; Rural Payments Agency; Common agricultural policy
Date
27 March 2006
Reference
444 c543-4
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what representations she has received about the new dispensing regulation proposed by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate.
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what representations she has received about the new dispensing regulation proposed by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate.
Asked by
Oliver Letwin
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
7 June 2005
For answer on
9 June 2005
Answered on
21 June 2005
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is developing new Regulations setting out controls on all aspects of veterinary medicines. These will take forward relevant recommendations made in the Marsh and Competition Commission reports on the dispensing of veterinary prescription only medicines (POMs) in the UK, implement an amending EU Directive and replace the existing voluminous and outdated UK legislation on veterinary medicines with a single set of Regulations.The new Regulations contain a number of provisions that relate to the supply and dispensing of veterinary medicines, including proposed new distribution categories. We have received correspondence about issues relating to some of these and other provisions from a number of individuals including veterinary surgeons and animal owners/keepers.During the initial stages of developing the proposals, officials at the VMD consulted informally with a wide range of interest groups. Following further development, a formal consultation package was published on the VMD website on 4 January 2005 and a letter sent to some 350 interested organisations and individuals. Consultees were allowed four months, until 5 May, to comment. Over 300 responses have been received and the comments are currently being considered and will be taken into account in finalising the draft Regulations. The VMD has kept interested parties informed of developments on key issues by publishing a series of reaction notes and has arranged public meetings on 21 and 22 June to discuss the outcome of the formal consultation. The consultation package remains available on the VMD website www.vmd.gov.uk under ““Consultations””““Previous””.
Subjects
EU law; Drugs; Veterinary services; Veterinary Medicines Directorate
Date
21 June 2005
Reference
3112; 435 c890W;435 c894W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, how many officials working in ministerial private offices in the Department have worked more than a 48 hour week at any time in the last 12 months for which figures are available; how many of those had signed...
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, how many officials working in ministerial private offices in the Department have worked more than a 48 hour week at any time in the last 12 months for which figures are available; how many of those had signed...
Asked by
Lord Brady of Altrincham
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
7 December 2004
For answer on
15 March 2005
Answered on
15 March 2005
Mr. Brady: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many officials working in ministerial private
offices in the Department have worked more than a 48 hour week at any time in the last 12 months for which figures are available;
how many of those had signed a waiver under working time regulations; and what percentage these figures represented of the total in
each case. [204144]
Margaret Beckett: Most members of Defra ministerial private offices have worked more than a 48 hour week at some time over the past
12 months.
The working time regulations provide workers with the protection of a limit of an average of 48 hours a week working time. This is
not an absolute cap of 48 hours in any one week. This average is normally calculated over a 17 week reference period, although this
can be longer in certain situations (26 weeks) and can be extended by agreement (up to 52 weeks). Workers may choose to work more
than 48 hours per week over this reference period by signing an opt-out agreement, but employers cannot force a worker to sign an
op-out, and workers cannot be subjected to detriment for refusing to sign an opt-out.
No members of private offices have signed an `opt- out' agreement.
Subjects
Civil servants; Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; EU law; Government departments; Working hours; Ministers' private offices
Date
15 March 2005
Reference
432 c171W;432 c169W; 204144
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment she has made of the effect on fly-tipping of (a) the Landfill Directive and (b) the most recent rise in landfill tax. - Including figures.
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment she has made of the effect on fly-tipping of (a) the Landfill Directive and (b) the most recent rise in landfill tax. - Including figures.
Asked by
Baroness May of Maidenhead
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
19 April 2004
For answer on
11 May 2004
Answered on
11 May 2004
Mrs. May: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made of the effect on
fly-tipping of (a) the Landfill Directive and (b) the most recent rise in landfill tax. [167515]
Margaret Beckett: No formal assessment has been made of the effect on fly-tipping of implementing the Landfill Directive in England
and Wales, or the £1 increase in the landfill tax rate for a tonne of active waste that occurred on 1 April this year.
However, Defra is commissioning a comprehensive research project looking at the causes and incentives of illegal waste disposal that
will result in a good practice guide focusing on pro-active, preventative policies. We expect the results of the research to be
available in late 2005.
Defra launched a consultation on its proposed Fly- Tipping Strategy on 23 February 2004.
Subjects
EU law; Hazardous substances; Landfill; Landfill tax; Fly-tipping; Waste management; Taxation; Waste disposal
Date
11 May 2004
Reference
421 c207W; 167515
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what the outcome was of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on 24th February; what the Government's stance was on the issues discussed, including its voting record; and if she will make a statement.
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what the outcome was of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on 24th February; what the Government's stance was on the issues discussed, including its voting record; and if she will make a statement.
Asked by
Jim Hood
(Labour)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
25 February 2004
For answer on
2 March 2004
Answered on
2 March 2004
Mr. Hood: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the outcome was of the Agriculture and
Fisheries Council on 24 February; what the Government's stance was on the issues discussed, including its voting record; and
if she will make a statement. [157673]
Margaret Beckett: I represented the United Kingdom at a meeting of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council in Brussels on
24 February.
The Irish Presidency briefly presented its work programme for the first half of the year. Their general priorities were enlargement,
simplification and enhancement of food safety.
The Council agreed by a qualified majority a Regulation providing for tariff quotas for the importation of certain fishery products.
Italy voted against because of its view that the quota for tuna loin imports was insufficient and Spain abstained because it felt
that the quotas in general were too large. I supported the proposal.
The Council noted progress on technical level discussions preparatory to political discussion at the April Council on the proposals
for a Regulation on the protection of animals during transport. There was a discussion and I supported the need for an early
agreement and for a longer-term objective of moving trade in live animals for slaughter to a meat basis.
The Council noted a presentation from the Commission on its proposals for the Financial Perspective.
The Council noted a report from the Greek Minister about severe weather conditions in Greece affecting agriculture and the
sympathetic response from the Commission. Greece and the Commission would pursue the assessment of this situation bilaterally.
The Council took note of a report from the Commission on its public hearing on 22 January on organic food and farming. This
is preparatory to the tabling of an Action Plan by the Commission to the Council later in the Irish Presidency.
Under any other business the Council noted a written report on BSE and reports from Commissioner Byrne on the current situation in
regard to Avian Influenza in Asia and a recent outbreak in the US. Commissioner Byrne notified the Council that acting under
comitology procedures the Commission was to introduce a ban on the importation of live poultry and certain products from the US. The
Council also noted a report from Spain and Portugal about the high level of feed grain prices and indications from Finland and
Sweden that there remained supplies of oats which could be used.
The Council also noted information from Italy and Portugal with support from other wine producing countries about recent changes
which had been made to the use of traditional terms for wine imported from third countries. The Council noted that the Commission
had explained that these changes were necessary to take account of recent discussions at WTO level.
The Council noted information from France about the low level of milk prices. A wide range of views were expressed in subsequent
discussion. I made the point that this was to be expected as a result of the changes agreed last June which was reflected in the
compensation payments to be introduced shortly. The Commission undertook to produce an analysis of the situation with assistance
from the member states.
Finally the Commission amplified the terms of a letter which it had recently sent to all member states about the Single Farm Payment
to explain that it was simply making the point that member states which chose to operate on regional or hybrid models would need to
justify this decision to the Commission as will be clarified in the Commission implementing Regulations. This was noted by the
Council.
Subjects
Animal welfare; Agriculture; Fisheries; EU law; Livestock; Milk; Organic farming; Transport; Wines; BSE; Avian influenza; EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council
Date
2 March 2004
Reference
157673; 418 c759-60W;418 c779-80W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what the outcome was of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on 17th to 18th December; what the Government's stance was on the issues discussed, including its voting record; and if she will make a statement.
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what the outcome was of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on 17th to 18th December; what the Government's stance was on the issues discussed, including its voting record; and if she will make a statement.
Asked by
Michael Connarty
(Labour)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
18 December 2003
For answer on
20 January 2004
Answered on
20 January 2004
Mr. Connarty: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the outcome was of the Agriculture and
Fisheries Council on 17 to 18 December; what the Government's stance was on the issues discussed, including its voting record; and
if she will make a statement. [145518]
Margaret Beckett: My hon. Friend, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Commons) and I represented the United Kingdom at a meeting of
the Agriculture and Fisheries Council in Brussels on 17 December. The Scottish and Northern Irish Ministers responsible for
Agriculture and Fisheries were also present.
The Council agreed by qualified majority a Regulation providing for the total allowable catches for fish stocks for 2004. Important
increases in quota for haddock and nephrops were agreed subject to special licensing and control conditions (those for nephrops to
be developed by the end of next February). Annex V of the Regulation provides for limits on fishing time in 2004 for vessels which
can catch cod, which operate in the North Sea and west of Scotland waters (as for 2003) and for the first time for vessels in the
Irish Sea and the eastern English Channel. Annex VI introduces an effort management scheme for the North Sea sandeel fishery, for
which the Regulation also sets significantly reduced quotas.
The Council also agreed by qualified majority a long term recovery plan for cod stocks, setting a mechanism for deciding on
multiannual catch limits, and providing for annual limits on fishing effort as in Annex V to the TAG Regulation. It explicitly
enables the Council to adjust the mechanism for fishing effort during 2004 should it so wish. Finally the Council agreed the guide
prices for fish species for 2004.
The Council adopted by qualified majority the Presidency's compromise text for a regulation reinforcing the current requirements
regarding identification of sheep and goats. I welcomed this proposal which met the main concerns we had registered during
negotiation. The arrangements take account of the unique structure of our sheep sector; and, subject to approval by the Commission,
our current national sheep and goat identification system of movement tags, backed up by the animal movement licensing system, will
remain until 2008; followed thereafter by the introduction of electronic ID, which we support.
The Council noted progress made in discussion of the proposal to update rules governing the welfare of animals during transport. The
proposal was remitted for further official discussion, in particular as regards the establishment of maximum journey times.
The Council took note without discussion of progress on a draft regulation harmonising official controls on food and feed. A number
of issues, notably the scope of regulation and the charges to be made in connection with its enforcement, remain to be settled.
The Council also took note of progress in discussion of a draft regulation setting maximum residue levels for pesticides.
There was no discussion. The Council discussed the package of proposals to reform the CAP regimes for tobacco, olive oil, cotton and
hops. We reiterated our support for the Commission in extending the principles of CAP reform to these sectors but argued for greater
decoupling of subsidies to the olive oil and-- particularly--cotton sectors. We expressed support for full decoupling in the tobacco
sector, as the Commission has proposed, and called for the shortest possible transition period. Detailed negotiation of these
proposals will resume under the Irish presidency.
Under Other Business, the Italian Presidency tabled a written report outlining progress on specific hygiene rules in the animal feed
sector. The Presidency also reported on progress in negotiation of a veterinary equivalence agreement with Russia. Austria pressed
for early action to deal with low prices in the pigmeat sector; we and several other Member States cautioned against reliance on
export refunds in this sector. We raised the problems caused for Pakistan by recent changes in the concessionary import terms
applicable to Basmati rice. The Commission took note and reported that it was consulting with Pakistan and India over the latest
information available on prices and varieties.
Subjects
Animal welfare; Conservation; Animal feed; Fisheries; EU law; Fishing catches; Goats; Livestock; Pesticides; Transport; Reform; Sheep; Tagging; Veterinary services; Common agricultural policy; Quotas; North Sea; White fish; EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council; Nephrops
Date
20 January 2004
Reference
416 c1183-4W; 145518
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what plans she has to introduce new charging arrangements to finance the Environment Agency's work in the current financial year and afterwards on (a) implementation of the Water Framework Directive, (b) development of the Revised Bathing Waters Directive,...
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what plans she has to introduce new charging arrangements to finance the Environment Agency's work in the current financial year and afterwards on (a) implementation of the Water Framework Directive, (b) development of the Revised Bathing Waters Directive,...
Asked by
David Lidington
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
8 September 2003
For answer on
22 October 2003
Answered on
22 October 2003
Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what plans she has to introduce new charging
arrangements to finance the Environment Agency's work in the current financial year and afterwards on (a) implementation of the
Water Framework Directive, (b) development of the Revised Bathing Waters Directive, (c) regulation of the spreading of sewage sludge
on agricultural land, (d) the reduction of agricultural waste and mines and quarries waste and (e) exemption from Waste Management
Licensing. [129356]
Margaret Beckett: The charging arrangements are as follows:
(a) Implementation of the Water Framework Directive
The Environment Agency's costs of implementing the Water Framework Directive during the current financial year are funded by a
combination of grant in aid and income from charges for consents for discharges to controlled waters and for water abstraction
licences. Similar arrangements will apply during the implementation of the Directive.
(b) Revised Bathing Waters Directive
During the annual review of the Environment Agency's charges, an assessment will be made, both for the current and future financial
years, as to whether extra charges for effluent discharges will be needed to fund development of the Revised Bathing Waters
Directive.
(c) The Sludge (Use in Agriculture) Regulations 1989
These regulations are currently being revised. The revised draft regulations on the spreading of sewage sludge on agricultural land
provide for the Environment Agency to recover its regulatory costs through charges and as part of these regulations a new charging
scheme is being developed to take effect on implementation of the revised regulations which is expected in 2004. (d) Reduction of
Agricultural and Mines and Quarries Waste
The regulations applying to the Waste Framework Directive's controls to agricultural and non-mineral mines and quarries waste are
currently being drafted and will be issued for public consultation. The Environment Agency's Waste Management Licensing Charging
Scheme will apply to the recovery or disposal of these types of waste under a licence as it currently applies to other types of
waste. We do not propose to apply charges to the recovery or disposal of agricultural waste under a registered licensing exemption.
Regulations will be in place by mid 2004.
(e) Exemption from Waste Management Licensing
Draft Regulations to implement the review of the exemptions in Waste Management Licensing Regulations 1994 provide for the
Environment Agency to extend charging to six existing exemptions and one new exemption for the burning of dunnage at the dockside.
The existing exemptions affected are: land treatment use of waste for land reclamation use and storage of building waste composting
storage and spreading of sewage sludge waste recovery at sewage treatment works.
It is intended that charges should be incorporated into the Agency's Waste Management Licensing Charging Scheme to take effect on
the Regulations' implementation. The draft Regulations were issued for public consultation on 19 June with a view to being
implemented early in 2004.
Subjects
Agriculture; Beaches; Finance; Fees and charges; Licensing; EU law; Exemptions; Farms; Environment Agency; Pollution; Mining; Pollution control; Quarrying; Water; Sewage; Waste management; Waste disposal; Seas and oceans
Date
22 October 2003
Reference
129356; 411 c575-6W;411 c579-80W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if she will make a statement on the Government's policy on the implementation of European legislation on the treatment and disposal of liquid dredgings from waterways.
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if she will make a statement on the Government's policy on the implementation of European legislation on the treatment and disposal of liquid dredgings from waterways.
Asked by
David Lidington
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
8 September 2003
For answer on
6 October 2003
Answered on
6 October 2003
Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make a statement on the
Government's policy on the implementation of European legislation on the treatment and disposal of liquid dredgings from waterways.
[129399]
Margaret Beckett: The regulatory and technical provisions of the 1999 EU Landfill Directive, including those on the treatment and
disposal of liquid dredgings, were implemented in England and Wales by the Landfill (England and Wales) Regulations 2002. The
Government recognise that some organisations responsible for the management of waterways in England may encounter difficulties in
disposing of liquid dredged material, particularly when the ban on landfilling of liquid wastes comes fully into force. (The
decision on when the ban will start will be taken following consultation with interested parties). The Department is currently
working with waterways' representatives to identify a way forward that meets the needs of all parties.
Subjects
EU law; Inland waterways; Water; Waste management; Waste disposal; Water treatment
Date
6 October 2003
Reference
129399; 410 c1198W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment she has made of the costs to local authorities of implementing (a) the End of Life Vehicles Directive and (b) the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive. - Inc figures.
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment she has made of the costs to local authorities of implementing (a) the End of Life Vehicles Directive and (b) the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive. - Inc figures.
Asked by
David Lidington
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
8 September 2003
For answer on
6 October 2003
Answered on
6 October 2003
Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made of the costs to
local authorities of implementing (a) the End of Life Vehicles Directive and (b) the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
Directive. [129402]
Margaret Beckett: (a) The ELV Directive contains no provision which applies directly to local authorities. However, under the New
Burdens arrangements, DTI have transferred to local authorities £25 million for 2003-04 to meet any additional costs they may incur
in relation to abandoned vehicles as a result of the directive's implementation. It is proposed to transfer similar sums in respect
of financial years 2004-05 and 2005-06.
(b) The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive does not place direct responsibilities on local authorities for
the collection and disposal of WEEE, but on producers and distributors. Future implementation options will take full account of the
costs for all stakeholders and will be subject to full consultation.
Subjects
EU law; Motor vehicles; Waste disposal
Date
6 October 2003
Reference
129402; 410 c1179W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, when she intends to introduce secondary legislation to implement the European Animal By-Products Regulation. (Holding answer 16 May 2003).
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, when she intends to introduce secondary legislation to implement the European Animal By-Products Regulation. (Holding answer 16 May 2003).
Asked by
David Lidington
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
13 May 2003
For answer on
1 September 2003
Answered on
1 September 2003
Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when she intends to introduce secondary
legislation to implement the European Animal By-Products Regulation. [114177]
Margaret Beckett :[holding answer 16 May 2003]: The regulation is directly applicable in the UK. The national implementing
legislation which came into force on 1 July does not repeat its provisions, but gives effect to the regulation by providing for
offences, powers of entry, etc.
Because of the elections in Scotland and Wales the consultation on their implementing legislation was delayed. As yet it is not
known exactly when the statutory instruments will be in place in the devolved areas, although I am advised that the Scottish
Executive are working to a timetable of 1 October. We are working closely with the industry to ensure effective implementation.
Subjects
Animal products; EU law; Regulation; Waste disposal
Date
1 September 2003
Reference
114177; 409 c820-1W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps she has taken to monitor the practical consequences of the implementation of the EU Animal By-Products Regulation for (a) the disposal of blood from abattoirs, (b) the disposal of fallen stock, (c) the disposal of catering...
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps she has taken to monitor the practical consequences of the implementation of the EU Animal By-Products Regulation for (a) the disposal of blood from abattoirs, (b) the disposal of fallen stock, (c) the disposal of catering...
Asked by
David Lidington
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
28 April 2003
For answer on
19 May 2003
Answered on
19 May 2003
Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (1) what steps she has taken to monitor the
practical consequences of the implementation of the EU Animal By-Products Regulation for (a) the disposal of blood from abattoirs,
(b) the disposal of fallen stock, (c) the disposal of catering waste to land and (d) the disposal of food waste from small
retailers; and if she will make a statement; [110894]
(2) if she will establish a joint working party including representatives from Government and industry to monitor the implementation
of the EU Animal By- Products Regulation. [110895]
Margaret Beckett: Defra has worked closely with industry representatives and enforcement bodies during the negotiations on the EU
Animal By-Products Regulation to identify practical difficulties, and where possible to secure transitional measures to give
industry time to make the changes necessary to comply with the new requirements.
The Department is in close touch with the enforcement authorities and has requested that they take a proportionate approach to
enforcement. We want to encourage all affected sectors to make every effort to comply with the requirements of the Regulation,
however, it is recognised that it may take a little time for new disposal facilities to come on stream.
We will continue to meet with the affected sectors to discuss the progress being made and problems that arise.
There are no plans to establish a formal working party, however regular meetings with stakeholders will continue during the first
year of implementation, just as they did during the negotiating phase. A meeting is planned shortly to enable Ministers to discuss
these issues with retailers.
Subjects
Animal products; Blood; EU law; Disease control; Food; Livestock; Meat; Shops; Retail trade; Waste disposal; Slaughterhouses
Date
19 May 2003
Reference
405 c524W;405 c522W; 110894;110895
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment she has made of the impact on species of carrion-eating birds of the implementation of the EU Animal By-Products Regulations; and if she will make a statement.
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment she has made of the impact on species of carrion-eating birds of the implementation of the EU Animal By-Products Regulations; and if she will make a statement.
Asked by
David Lidington
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
14 April 2003
For answer on
19 May 2003
Answered on
19 May 2003
Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what assessment she has made of the impact on
species of carrion-eating birds of the implementation of the EU Animal By-Products Regulations; and if she will make a statement.
[109851]
Margaret Beckett: The Regulation permits member states to authorise the feeding of Animal By-Products which do not contain SRM to
captive birds of prey. The UK intends to exercise this derogation.
A derogation to permit the feeding of fallen stock to necrophagous birds is available to Spain, Italy, Greece, Portugal and France
as part of approved conservation measures for vultures. This derogation is not available in the UK.
Subjects
Birds; Animal feed; EU law; Disease control
Date
19 May 2003
Reference
109851; 405 c525W;405 c523W
House
House of Commons
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Asked by
Baroness McIntosh of Pickering
(Conservative)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Oral answers to questions
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, If she will make a statement on the mid-term CAP review and its implications for British farmers.
Subjects
EU law; Import controls; Imports; Common agricultural policy; Poultry meat; Brazil
Date
15 May 2003
Reference
405 c442-3
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, If she will make a statement on the mid-term CAP review and its implications for British farmers.
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, If she will make a statement on the mid-term CAP review and its implications for British farmers.
Asked by
Baroness McIntosh of Pickering
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Oral questions - Lead
Status
Answered
Tabled on
12 May 2003
For answer on
15 May 2003
Answered on
15 May 2003
Subjects
EU law; Import controls; Imports; Common agricultural policy; Poultry meat; Brazil
Date
15 May 2003
Reference
405 c442-3; 113299
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
House
House of Commons
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Oral answers to questions
Subjects
EU law; Import controls; Imports; Common agricultural policy; Poultry meat; Brazil
Date
15 May 2003
Reference
405 c442-3
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what her policy is on the practice of debeaking in the poultry industry; and if she will make a statement.
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what her policy is on the practice of debeaking in the poultry industry; and if she will make a statement.
Asked by
David Lidington
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
27 March 2003
For answer on
8 April 2003
Answered on
8 April 2003
Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what her policy is on the practice of debeaking
in the poultry industry; and if she will make a statement. [106531]
Margaret Beckett: Generally beak trimming should only be carried out as a last resort when it is clear that more suffering would be
caused in the flock if it were not done.
There are, however, specific requirements for laying hens in Council Directive 99/74/EC. The Directive prohibits all mutilations,
but permits member states to allow the beak trimming of birds that are less than 10 days old in order to prevent feather pecking and
cannibalism. We intend to take up this authorisation only until 31 December 2010, and have met interested parties, including the egg
industry and breeders, to agree an action plan to achieve this aim.
Subjects
Animal welfare; EU law; Poultry
Date
8 April 2003
Reference
106531; 403 c133-4W;403 c134W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to her Answer of 11th February, Official Report, 399 c642W, on farm incinerators, whether she has received clarification from the European Commission about the incineration of specified risk material in incinerators operating at less than 50kg per...
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to her Answer of 11th February, Official Report, 399 c642W, on farm incinerators, whether she has received clarification from the European Commission about the incineration of specified risk material in incinerators operating at less than 50kg per...
Asked by
David Lidington
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
13 March 2003
For answer on
28 March 2003
Answered on
28 March 2003
Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to her Answer of 11 February 2003,
Official Report,
column 642W, on farm incinerators, whether she has received clarification from the European Commission about the incineration of
specified risk material in incinerators operating at less than 50kg per hour; and if she will make a statement. [103739]
Margaret Beckett: Following receipt of an opinion from the EU Scientific Steering Committee, the European Commission has now,
proposed further measures to permit the incineration of specified risk material in incinerators operating at less than 50kg/hour.
From 1 May the incineration of SRM in such incinerators must comply with these measures as well as those measures already in the
Animal By-Products Regulation.
Subjects
EU law; Farms; EU action; Incinerators
Date
28 March 2003
Reference
103739; 402 c467W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what her policy is on the penalties that should be applied to egg producers in breach of the EU's planned rules on compulsory marking. - Including figures.
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what her policy is on the penalties that should be applied to egg producers in breach of the EU's planned rules on compulsory marking. - Including figures.
Asked by
David Lidington
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
13 March 2003
For answer on
24 March 2003
Answered on
24 March 2003
Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what her policy is on the penalties that should
be applied to egg producers in breach of the EU's planned rules on compulsory marking. [103761]
Margaret Beckett: As far as possible, the relevant enforcement bodies seeks to encourage compliance with the egg marketing
legislation through good communication and advice. In common with other aspects of the rules, where a minor discrepancy is
discovered, producers will be given guidance on how to comply, and a reminder may be included on the inspection report. In more
serious cases, Notices of Contravention will be served requiring compliance before the product can be marketed. Prosecution is
normally only considered where serious breaches are found, or where there has been non co-operation in putting things right. In the
event of a prosecution, the level of penalty is a matter for the court to decide but the maximum penalty for breaches of the egg
marketing regulations is £5,000 per offence.
Subjects
EU law; Fines; Eggs; Labelling; EU action; Offenders; Marketing; Agricultural products
Date
24 March 2003
Reference
103761; 402 c2W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to her Answer of 25th February 2003, 400 c455W, on egg marking, what assessment she has made of the costs to small egg producers of complying with the new rules on marking. - Including figures.
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to her Answer of 25th February 2003, 400 c455W, on egg marking, what assessment she has made of the costs to small egg producers of complying with the new rules on marking. - Including figures.
Asked by
David Lidington
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
13 March 2003
For answer on
24 March 2003
Answered on
24 March 2003
Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to her answer of 25 February 2003,
Official Report, column 455W, on egg marking, what assessment she has made of the costs to small egg producers of complying with the
new rules on marking. [103740]
Margaret Beckett: Compliance costs will vary considerably depending on producers' individual circumstances. For producers selling
their own ungraded eggs direct to consumers, there will be no additional costs as they fall outside the scope of these rules.
Similarly, producers selling eggs through larger registered packing stations will be unaffected as the marking will take place at
the packing station. For those producers who package eggs on farm for subsequent marketing, the cost will depend on the size of
throughput and the degree of sophistication of the stamping equipment. For very small producers, a hand stamp can be purchased for a
few pounds, and the time costs should be minimal. For larger producers, the cost of automated stamping machinery starts at between
£2,000 and £3,000.
Subjects
Costs; EU law; Eggs; Labelling; EU action; Production; Small businesses; Agricultural products
Date
24 March 2003
Reference
103740; 402 c3W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to her Answer of 25th February 2003, 400 c455W, on egg marking, what assessment she has made of the impact of the new rules for marking on the eggs sold at Women's Institute markets.
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to her Answer of 25th February 2003, 400 c455W, on egg marking, what assessment she has made of the impact of the new rules for marking on the eggs sold at Women's Institute markets.
Asked by
David Lidington
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Beckett
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
13 March 2003
For answer on
21 March 2003
Answered on
21 March 2003
Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs pursuant to her answer of 25 February 2003,
Official Report, column 455W, on egg marking, what assessment she has made of the impact of the new rules for marking on the eggs
sold at Women's Institute markets. [103741]
Margaret Beckett: The principal purpose of the new rules on egg marking is to improve consumer information and to provide greater
traceability, for example in the event of a possible food borne disease outbreak. This need applies irrespective of the outlet.
Where eggs are from a clearly identifiable producer and are sold direct to the final consumer in a WI market, they do not
necessarily have to be marked. Otherwise, the normal egg marketing rules will apply.
Subjects
EU law; Eggs; Labelling; Markets; Women's Institute
Date
21 March 2003
Reference
103741; 401 c959-60W
House
House of Commons