The Shadow Minister for Environment has called for further reassurances from the Welsh Government on the contamination of red meat in Wales.
Following a statement from the Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Montgomeryshire Assembly Member Russell George has highlighted uncertainties around the future of Welsh beef and lamb and the government’s role in strengthening testing.
Mr George said:
"The cross-contamination of meat remains an issue of great concern, not just to members of the public, but also to the industry itself, where the majority of small honest businesses are having their reputations severely damaged.
"Welsh ministers are fully responsible for food safety in Wales, and in particular for the functions of the Food Standards Agency.
"It is crucial that we receive further information on the extent of contamination in our schools and hospitals as soon as it is available.
"Further steps to protect the image of Welsh beef and lamb must also be given due consideration.
"It is clear that an improved and rigorous testing regime is going to be at the heart of restoring industry integrity and public confidence.
The Minister must now work closely with local authorities to strengthen inspection, sampling and analysis."