Investigation Into BSE Beef Import Changes
AUSTRALIA - Australia's blanket ban on beef imports from countries with previous outbreaks of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) will be lifted, after the Cattle Council asked for the change.
26 October 2009
1 minute read
The lift of the ban has led to criticism that the reputation of Australia's' industry is being put at risk. ABC Rural report that the Senate is considering an inquiry into the relaxation of rules protecting Australia from mad cow disease.
Independent Senator, Nick Xenophon says he thinks most beef producers would oppose the change. "I think you'll find that rank and file cattle operators around the country aren't happy with this," he says. "They are concerned about the implications and it seems that a deal has been done without proper consultation, without due consultation. "
He told ABC Rural that was why an urgent Senate inquiry was required, to get to the bottom of this very quickly.
The Cattle Council of Australia is standing by its support for the change.
Executive director David Inall says the council's position has been consistent since 2005 and has the support of most producers.
