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The BSE Inquiry has uncovered a rift between two senior officials who advised
the British government on the epidemic. Kenneth Calman, who stepped down as
Chief Medical Officer last month, told the inquiry that he learnt in 1995 that
sections of spinal cord—banned for human consumption—were still
entering the food chain. Calman was surprised that Keith Meldrum, then Chief
Veterinary Officer, described this breach merely as “disappointing”. “He
understated the importance of this information,” Calman states in his written
evidence.