Speaking today at the Institute of Trading Standards Administration Consumer Conference, Food Safety Minister Jeff Rooker said:
"The public has a right to have all the facts to help them make informed judgements about the safety and quality of their food. The Food Standards Agency aims to drive up food safety standards and provide advice and information both to Ministers and the public. It will carry out research and surveillance. And, it will set standards and monitor enforcement, to bring a new level of consistency to food work. A draft Bill on the Agency will be published shortly. One of the Agency's objectives will be to improve the consistency of enforcement of food legislation in partnership with local authorities. The views of Trading Standards officers will be invaluable in this process. We need to work together with Trading Standards bodies to serve the interests of consumers."