The Consumer Federation of America welcomes the appointment of Dr. Barbara Masters as administrator of the Food Safety and Inspection Service. Since recently appointed Under Secretary for Food Safety, Dr. Richard Raymond, has no experience as a federal official, it is important to have leadership in FSIS who knows the meat, poultry and egg inspection programs well. As a career FSIS staff person, Dr. Masters has long experience in administering these laws. In addition, consumer representatives have found Dr. Masters to be accessible, concerned about improving food safety programs and amenable to engaging in a discussion of our concerns. We look forward to continuing to work with her on issues of importance to consumers.