NFUS media response – cloned cattle

“Since details of the situation started to emerge, NFU Scotland has been in close contact with the Food Standards Agency, Scottish Government as well as with the farmer involved, Mr Innes. The key issue is that there are no risks to human health posed by the products from the offspring of cloned animals.

“What is at debate here is essentially the processes that need to be followed to label any products clearly. The farmer has acted in good faith, seeking advice on what should and shouldn't be done. It would appear that advice was incomplete and the process here has fallen down. As an industry we want a review of the procedures to ensure those acting in good faith don't fall foul of the rules and, crucially, to ensure consumers always have clear information on the food they're buying.”

Ends

We have been working alongside Mr Innes to offer support in handling the substantial volume of media enquiries he has received throughout the day. For your info the statement which he has currently settled on is below, we are issuing this on his behalf when approached:

Mr Innes said:

“I can confirm that in February 2008 I bought two bulls privately which were the offspring of a cloned cow.

“I investigated these issues regarding food chain rules and understood that there was no issue.

“I have acted in good faith throughout and have been fully compliant with the relevant authorities' wishes and shall continue to be fully cooperative in order to resolve this distressing situation as soon as possible.”