Salmonella-in-eggs controversy

Poultry World reported a "sudden scourge of Salmonella enteriditis" but claimed that the attack on eggs' reputation had been "politically motivated".

[5] On 3 December 1988 Currie stated in a television interview for ITN: We do warn people now that most of the egg production in this country, sadly, is now affected with salmonella.

The British Egg Industry Council called Currie's statement "highly irresponsible" and "factually incorrect" and it sought advice on whether or not it was able to sue her.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food expressed anger towards Currie's comments and the Department of Health was unable to back up her claims.

[8] The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Jean Barker, Baroness Trumpington replied to the question with: We must keep this problem in perspective.

[1][4] The pressure from the industry and the lack of support from MPs from major farming constituencies resulted in Currie's resignation as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health on 16 December.