21.   While the disease posed no threat to humans, it made travel in rural areas difficult and discouraged some visitors.

22.   Although the disease poses no health risk, it affects crop yields and quality, causing serious economic harm.

23.   But the British authorities, backed by the European Commission, say there is no scientific proof that the disease poses any risk to human health.

24.   Earlier hearings have produced strong evidence that the commission attempted to stifle early warnings that mad cow disease posed a risk to human health.

25.   Earlier hearings produced strong evidence that the commission attempted to stifle early warnings that mad cow disease posed a risk to human health.

26.   The disease poses no threat to human beings, but is highly contagious among chickens.