Blair in TV plea to French

9 November 1999



Blair in TV plea to French

TONY BLAIR made a direct appeal to French consumers yesterday (Monday), pledging that British beef was safe and hoping that the ban would be lifted within “a matter of days”.

The Prime Minister appeared on French television to explain in detail the science behind the European Commissions ruling that British beef was safe.

He said he was “certain” that all the concerns of French consumers could be addressed. He also offered his assurance on the quality of British beef.

Mr Blair was speaking during a short trip to Paris for the Socialist International, a three-yearly congress of left-leaning parties from around the world.

• French ban over in a few days – Blair, FWi, 8 November, 1999
• Officials keep mum as beef talks end, FWi, 5 November, 1999
• Blair warns Jospin over beef, FWi, 15 October, 1999
• Blair appeals to Jospin over beef ban, FWi, 14 October, 1999