Source: EURLEX
Language: en
Format: md

[**Avis juridique important**](../../../editorial/legal_notice.htm)

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# 92000E0055

**WRITTEN QUESTION P-0055/00 by Marie-Noëlle Lienemann (PSE) to the Commission. BSE screening programme.** 
  
*Official Journal 225 E , 08/08/2000 P. 0217 - 0218*

  

WRITTEN QUESTION P-0055/00

by Marie-Noëlle Lienemann (PSE) to the Commission

(18 January 2000)

Subject: BSE screening programme

How and when does the Commission intend to introduce a systematic screening programme for BSE, as has been in place in Switzerland since March 1999?

The BSE screening programme in Switzerland shows that the aberrant prion is much more widespread among cattle than was thought and that infected animals can enter the food chain.

In view of the legal obligation to apply the precautionary principle, is not both urgent and necessary for the Commission to investigate this dreadful problem fully before any more food safety disasters occur in Europe?

Answer given by Mr Byrne on behalf of the Commission

(9 February 2000)

As stated in my hearing before Parliament last September I consider that a systematic testing for BSE should be implemented. The Commission has initiated discussions with the Member States on the introduction of post-mortem tests for BSE with the intention to present a proposal to the standing veterinary committee before April 2000.

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