Volume 6: Human Health, 1989-96
5. Human health developments: 1 January 1991 to 31 March 1995
Government pronouncements, media concerns and public reaction
Press release on the third report of CJDSU
Discussion: the decision to extend the SBO ban to cover calves' intestines

Press release on the third report of CJDSU

5.392 On 7 October 1994, DH published the third report of the CJDSU. The accompanying press release noted the main findings of the report. The findings of the reports of the CJDSU are described in vol. 8: Variant CJD:

. . . We see no evidence from the report of an emerging CJD epidemic. The incidence of CJD in the UK continues to be similar to other European countries. . .

There is no evidence of space-time clustering of CJD cases and no evidence of links with particular occupations. Analysis of possible dietary links continues but interpretation is difficult. We note that the statistical association between black pudding consumption and CJD in last year's report has not been confirmed in the present analysis. The finding on veal in this year's report should be seen in this context. It does, however, appear worthy of further investigation by the unit in conjunction with other national CJD surveillance projects within Europe.

We have no further recommendations to make to Government on the basis of the report and remain satisfied with the adequacy of current controls to protect public health in regard to CJD. ¹

Discussion: the decision to extend the SBO ban to cover calves' intestines

5.393 This decision was a model of how government ought to handle such an issue.

• SEAC's advice was sought as to the implications of the finding in the pathogenesis experiment.
• SEAC limited their advice to the effect this had on the question of risk of transmission to humans and did not recommend the appropriate policy decision.
• MAFF and DH worked closely together in considering the appropriate response.
• The issue was discussed with Mrs Shephard at a meeting at which the CMO expressed his advice in favour of an extension to the SBO ban.
• The effect that such an extension would have on trade was considered.
• The Minister and the Parliamentary Secretary were in agreement that 'protecting the public health was the first of MAFF's aims'. The CMO's advice would be followed notwithstanding the potential for serious impact on trade. ²
• The practical implications were considered.
• The results of the experiment and the Government's response were announced without delay.
• There was swift consultation and prompt action. Slaughterhouses, local authorities and bodies consulted were individually informed of the extension of the Regulations.

5.394 We have no criticism to make of the terms of the joint press release. This adopted the language of SEAC in describing the risk to health disclosed by the experiment result as 'minuscule'. We note that in discussion at the Cabinet meeting one of the participants objected to this description, as detracting from the position that there was 'no risk' from eating beef. We would have been concerned had any attempt been made to get the CMO to alter his statement, but it was accepted that it should go out as drafted (see paragraphs 5.386-5.387).