THE Government won support for its handling of the beef industry in the wake of the BSE scare. A motion commending its efforts to confront the crisis, restore consumer confidence and reopen vital export markets was passed by 70 votes to 58.

The motion, which called for more action by the Government, was put in Private Members' Times on Tuesday by Fianna Fail.

Last night, the Minister of State, Mr Pat Rabbitte, said it was a matter of gratification that sales were back up at 90 per cent of normal levels. The contribution of the expert advisory group set up by the Government had to be acknowledged, Mr Rabbitte said.