The&nbsp;College of Quaestors&nbsp;took today the decision to keep&nbsp;'foie gras' on the menu in the EP, the discussion came up as a group of MEPs&nbsp;requested a ban in the House. Statement by Elisabeth MORIN-CHARTIER (EPP, FR), Quaestor

statement

Strasbourg

MORIN-CHARTIER, Elisabeth (EPP, FR)

Decision by College of Quaestors to keep 'foie gras' on the menu in the EP: statement by Elisabeth MORIN-CHARTIER (EPP,FR)

SOUNDBITE (French), Elisabeth MORIN-CHARTIER (EPP, FR), Quaestor, "The College of Quaestor recommends that we will continue to serve 'fois gras' at the European Parliament. First we have to keep in mind that we are speaking about a marginal volume of 'fois gras', which is about 0,2 per cent of the total meat consumption and it is only on certain moments, just for special events.What is important is to respect the cultural diversity. Some eat deer, some baby goats and some 'fois gras', what is important is to have a choice and to respect its cultural practices.On the other hand there had been a very important battle and here I will not lose sight on it as it continues, when you attack the serving of 'fois gras' in the European Parliament, you can imagine that it is only the top part of the iceberg."

SOUNDBITE (French), Elisabeth MORIN-CHARTIER (EPP, FR), Quaestor, (soundbite continues - one sequence ) : "What is at stake here? An industry and this industry represent 90% of the 'fois gras' eaten worldwide and its being produced here in Europe. This is about employment, this is an important economic activity, it's not only a cultural one, it is also an economic activity. When I see the rising demand of 'fois gras' in the world, in Indonesia, in Quarter, etc. if Europe cannot do it and cannot protect itself other countries such as China will take over, so No, let's defend our jobs, our culture and let's continue to have the choice to eat 'fois gras' or something else at Europe Parliament."

Interior, restaurant, (Total view of the main restaurant in Strasbourg, building WIC, close up of food and menu card) 7 shots