45 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will provide an update in relation to the position of the EU ban on hormone treated beef; if the EU continues to be under pressure from the US in this regard; his position with regard to hormone treated beef; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22418/99]

There has been a long-running dispute between the EU and the US arising from the Union's ban on imports of hormone treated beef, which was imposed in 1988. Following protracted proceedings, which included an appeal under the WTO mechanisms, the EU was allowed up to 13 May last to bring the import ban fully into line with WTO rules on risk assessment.