SALE OF GREEN TOP MILK

That this House congratulates the Government on extending the consultation period on the proposal to ban the sale of raw cow's milk; accepts that raw cow's milk can contain harmful bacteria that can lead to food poisoning; notes that many other natural foods such as eggs, meat, cheese and other milk-based products can also contain harmful bacteria; notes that the health risks of tobacco and alcohol are far greater than the health risks of raw cow's milk; acknowledges that all producers of raw cow's milk are subject to stringent, regular safety tests; recognises the growing consumer demand for natural and organic foods because of their superior taste and quality; and, therefore, calls on the Government to respond to the latest advice from the Advisory Committee on the Microbiological Safety of Food in such a way that its responsibilities for safeguarding public health are balanced with the need to protect consumer choice.