asked the Minister for Health the plans, if any, he has for the stricter enforcement of the food hygiene regulations with particular reference to those regulations concerning the slaughter of animals and the sale of meat for human consumption; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The enforcement of the food hygiene regulations is the responsibility of the health boards. I am satisfied that health boards fully discharge their responsibility for enforcing the regulations and in so doing pay particular attention to preventing unfit meat from reaching the consumer.

However, slaughterhouses require to be subject to stricter statutory control than those provided under these regulations. My colleague, the Minister for Agriculture and Food, has at present draft legislation under consideration which is intended to provide a comprehensive control on slaughterhouses supplying the domestic market and to ensure that adequate standards of veterinary control and hygiene are provided.

Will the Minister state if he has taken any action or issued any instructions to the health boards following the recent "Today Tonight" programme, with a view to more strict enforcement of the regulations?

We are aware of the breaches of the food hygiene regulations and we are satisfied that the health boards are fully discharging their duties. I have signed orders to close certain unauthorised slaughterhouses.

Have any recent inspections been carried out on retail outlets to verify that the regulations are being complied with?

I do not have a specific answer to that question but I am satisfied that the health boards are very aware of what is happening and that they are discharging their duties.