A motion to discuss a potential ban on the sale of foie gras in York restaurants and shops has been taken off the political menu.

The City of York Council was to consider a motion calling for the sale of the French delicacy to be banned on ethical grounds, but instead asked council officials to investigate the issue and compile a report.

Labour councilor Paul Blanchard, who tabled the motion, told local papers he was disappointed the issue had not been discussed and called the production of foie gras a "brutal practice".

Local restaurateurs described the bid as "ridiculous" while other councilors pointed out that the council had no powers to impose such a ban.

In the USA last year, Chicago became the first major city to ban the sale of foie gras.

However, a recent report in the Boston Globe found that some restaurateurs continued to serve the delicacy, keeping it listed on menus and in one case even framing the city's warning letter.

By Kerstin Kühn

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