Tony Burke has today ordered an import risk analysis for beef imported from countries that have had mad cow disease.

The Nationals Member for Riverina, Kay Hull, has said a combination of pressure from the general public and the Opposition has forced the Minister to admit a BSE risk analysis is necessary.

The Coalition has been preparing to introduce a Private Members Bill this week calling for the import risk analysis, equivalence in trace back mechanisms and country of origin labelling.

Mrs Hull said she is pleased and relieved Minister Burke has finally taken notice.

Mrs Hull said The Nationals have fought hard on this issue, to ensure Riverina and Australian beef producers are not impacted upon by the Labor Government’s decision to allow beef from previously affected BSE infected countries such as the US to enter the market.

“I congratulate The National Senators for the pressure they have placed on the Labor Government and for keeping this issue high on the agenda,” Mrs. Hull said.