Shellfish Industry 2021-06-17
2021-06-17
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The EU ban on live bivalve molluscs from class B waters has affected the shellfish industry, prompting calls for support and clarification.
What steps are being taken to support the shellfish industry in light of the European Commission's import ban?
The FSA has revised its shellfish waters classification process to ensure classifications are proportionate and pragmatic, providing high levels of public health protection.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific steps or timeline for support beyond mentioning the FSA's revisions
Changed Subject To Positive Aspects
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Prime Minister mentioned accelerating the process, raising concerns about whether recommendations can be brought forward earlier than September 2021.
Is there any chance that FSA's recommendations can be brought forward ahead of September 2021?
The process is being accelerated but it must remain robust and fair. The Prime Minister and DEFRA are doing everything they can to speed up the process.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a specific timeline or confirm any earlier dates
Reiterated Commitment Without Specifics
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Government's response to the EU ban has been criticised, with pressure mounting for legal action if they think the EU has acted unlawfully.
If Ministers believe that the European Union has acted unlawfully or incorrectly in its decision on shellfish imports, why have they not initiated legal proceedings?
There is a process to follow and we will consider when and if legal action should become appropriate. However, legal action is never a quick fix.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide reasons for not initiating legal proceedings or confirm any intentions
Emphasized Process Over Immediate Actions
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Concerns about the economic impact on shellfish businesses due to reclassification from B to A and calls for direct support.
Why has legal action not been taken against the EU? The FSA can reallocate water classifications faster. We need agencies to work together more quickly, and direct support is necessary to prevent shellfish businesses from going out of business.
We are looking at how we can best support the industry in a proportionate and joined-up way, including speaking to colleagues across Government repeatedly with those in the FSA and Department of Health and Social Care.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific direct support measures or confirm faster inter-agency coordination
Reiterated Commitment Without Specifics
Response accuracy