THE ban on foie gras in York's cafes and restaurants has been knocked off the political menu after councillors voted not to debate the issue.

As previewed in The Press earlier this week, City of York Council last night considered a motion calling for the sale of the French delicacy to be banned in York on ethical grounds.

But councillors referred the motion to officers to compile a report without discussing it in depth.

Labour councillor Paul Blanchard, who tabled the motion, said: "I am disappointed that the council doesn't want to debate the issue this evening. It is a matter of principal."

Foie gras is the liver of ducks or geese which have been force-fed.

Coun Blanchard called its production a "brutal practice".

Speaking in advance of the meeting, he said: "I have been asked why I am trying to address this issue when we are confronted with so many more pressing issues like crime and transport.

"I also readily accept that there is much injustice afflicted upon humans that far outweigh cruelty to animals. However, that there are greater wrongs in the world should not require us to turn a blind eye to other cruelties when they are exposed.

If something is wrong, it's wrong."

Restaurateurs involved in the sale of foie gras had criticised Coun Blanchard's motion.

Aimee Postings, general manager of the Grange Hotel in Bootham, York, called the proposed ban "ridiculous".

Council leader Steve Galloway said the council had no powers to impose a ban.

He said: "We regret that those people who oppose the production of foie gras have had their hopes raised without legal foundation."