Opportunity to discuss proposed OTM rule change including BSE testing trials

Monday 25 July 2005

Ref: WA39/O5CK

A series of Food Standards Agency open meetings across the UK, taking place during the last week of July, will provide an opportunity for stakeholders and the public to discuss the proposed Over Thirty Months (OTM) Rule change process, including the outcome of the BSE testing trials.

Four open meetings will take place in each of the four nations starting with London on 25 July, Edinburgh on 26 July, Belfast on 28 July and finally Cardiff on 29 July.

The Wales meeting will be held at City Hall in Cardiff, from 11am-1pm. Places are limited so to book a place in advance please call 0117 935 5255 or email: j.smith@soundscommercial.co.uk.

In December 2004 the Government announced the start of a managed transition towards replacing the OTM rule. The announcement made clear that the move to testing would not happen until the Agency advised Ministers on the robustness of the testing system. An independent group of experts, chaired by Professor Patrick Wall, was set up to advise the Agency on robustness and oversee trials of the system.

The meetings will include an overview from the FSA on the proposed BSE control changes and the next steps in the process, as well as a presentation from Professor Patrick Wall on the work of the Independent Group. There will also be a question and answer and discussion session for all to express their views.