The presence of horsemeat in beef products was due to "incompetence" or an international criminal "conspiracy", the UK's environment secretary has said.

Speaking after an emergency meeting to discuss the scandal, Owen Paterson promised to find out the full circumstances.

Aldi, Tesco and Findus have all withdrawn certain products from Irish shelves.

Swedish food giant Findus and French meat supplier Spangher they plan to sue whoever is responsible.

The UK's Labour Leader Ed Miliband said the Government needs to get a grip on the situation.