EU leader urges halt of Brazilian beef imports

All imports of Brazilian beef to European markets must be stopped amid fears over low standards, warns Conservative and Unionist Member of the Parliament (MEP) Jim Nicholson.

Of 12 Brazilian farms inspected by the EU's Food and Veterinary Office (FVO) for its latest report, the Irish leader says six were found not to have met the standards required by the EU. That means 50 percent of animals shipped are of low quality.

The MEP said it was unbelievable that the European Commission should refer to what he described as a lack of tagging, incorrect paperwork and non-existent movement controls as "minor deficiencies", stating that any Northern Ireland farmer who operated in such a way would be called to court immediately and face serious consequences.

His remarks came as the Commission updated MEPs on Brazilian beef imports following the FVO's latest inspection trip to the South American country.

Farmers in Northern Ireland have strongly objected to Brazilian beef, stating that they are unable to compete on a level playing field with their counterparts outside the EU as they are expected to meet much higher production and animal welfare standards.

The FVO first reported its concerns in 2005 that serious problems existed over traceability and identification of individual cattle in Brazil's beef production industry.