Calls for update on horsemeat scandal
CALLS have been made for an emergency statement on the horsemeat scandal with the Government urged to give a full picture on the extent of the crisis.
Scottish Conservatives said more information must be forthcoming from Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead after it emerged catering firm Sodexo, which withdrew beef from its UK sites after a frozen product tested positive for horse DNA, had supplied burgers to the Scottish Parliament.
While written assurances had been received by the Government from Sodexo that supplies to Holyrood are not affected, its beef burgers have been taken off the menu as a precautionary measure.
Scottish councils have been told not to use any frozen beef products following the discovery of horse DNA in a canteen burger at Cumbernauld High School.
Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson called for Mr Lochhead to make a statement to MSPs.
Ms Davidson said: “We only heard half the truth when the minister made his statement in Parlia- ment and the public now deserves to be told the full facts to help restore confidence in the food chain.”
Meanwhile, food expert Professor Hugh Penning- ton said people are safer eating horsemeat than beef as there was no risk of the E.coli bug. The microbiologist said: “There may be a taste preference but it is perfectly nutritious.”
A Scottish Government spokesman said: “Mr Lochhead made a statement to Parliament last week and will continue to keep MSPs updated with fur ther developments.
“The Cabinet Secretary has also announced two expert food groups will be established in response to concerns.”