GOVERNMENT and Opposition speakers called for an end to the British tactic of disrupting EU business in protest against the beef export ban.
The Taoiseach said it was not appropriate for Britain to politicise an issue which was essentially a matter of consumer confidence based on "good solid scientific information". The British authorities should address the consumer aspects of the issue and the EU should assist Britain in taking a more moderate approach.
Mr Bruton was responding to the Fianna Fail leader, Mr Bertie Ahern, on the order of business.
The FF spokesman on finance, Mr Charlie McCreevy, at Question Time, said it was outrageous, that the British tactic of obstruction should continue. Proportionately, Ireland suffered more as a result than any other member state. That should be brought to the attention of British ministers.
The Minister for Finance, Mr Quinn, supporting Mr McCreevy, said steps to impress our view on the British authorities were being taken.