BOLTON MP Brian Iddon is concerned that MPs will not get the chance to fully debate the proposed new Food Standards Agency.

The Government is introducing the FSA to tackle the growing epidemic of food poisoning and to ensure that British food is among the safest in the world.

But a number of MPs are worried that there will not be a chance for them to ensure that the new agency will run properly and that there will be enough cash to pay for it. The Bolton South-east MP wants to ensure that the Select Committees on Health and Agriculture can fully discuss the proposals.

The former research chemist also wants a proper debate about the financing of the agency to make sure there is enough money for it to operate properly.

Food Standards Minister Jeff Rooker promised there would be proper time for select committees and MPs to examine all aspects of the proposals.

He told Dr Iddon: "There will be adequate time to debate this important policy initiative. Given the problem this country has experienced in the past with food safety and enforcement, we cannot afford to get it wrong this time - too many people are watching what we are doing."

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