KEETCH TABLES PARLIAMENTARY MOTION TO GET BEEF BACK ON THE MENU

8.21.44pm GMT Thu 9th Mar 2006

Following yesterday's announcement that a worldwide ban on British beef exports has been lifted by the EU, West Midlands Liberal Democrats MP Paul Keetch has tabled a parliamentary motion in the House of Commons supporting the move.

The motion has attracted cross-party support and encourages British tourists in Europe to choose British beef in shops and restaurants and urges British diplomatic missions and military bases to start serving British beef.

Commenting, Mr Keetch said "I feel it is extremely important that we begin to market beef and what a better advert than persuading British tourists to start asking for British beef abroad.

"The agricultural sector has suffered incredibly over the past years, not only with the BSE crisis and Foot and Mouth, but now the creeping epidemic of Bird Flu is again threatening the industry. The lifting of the ban is very welcome news, so I am urging all MPs from all Parties to sign the motion and celebrate British beef. "

ENDS

Full text of EDM 1775

That this House welcomes the lifting of the 10 year ban on the export of British beef to the EU; urges the Government to work with the industry to promote British beef throughout Europe; encourages British tourists in Europe to ask for British beef at shops and restaurants; and calls upon British embassies and military bases in Europe to begin serving British beef with pride.