§ 56. Captain PETER MACDONALDasked the Minister of Health what tests are carried out for determining the quality of imported dried and condensed 1360 milk; and will he consider introducing legislation to make it compulsory for such milk to be sold in containers bearing a clear indication whether there is any deficiency of fats or other nourishing substances?
§ Mr. GREENWOODSamples of imported dried and condensed milks are taken both at the time of importation and at the time of exposure for sale and are examined by the Government chemist and the public analysts in order to ascertain whether the requirements of the relative regulations as to composition and labelling are complied with. I see no need for legislation as the regulations—of which I am sending copies to the hon. and gallant Member—require, inter alia, that if fat has been removed from the milk from which the dried or condensed milk is made the fact must be clearly declared on the label. If any constituent of natural milk—other than water or fat—were removed, the product would not fall within the definition of dried or condensed milk.
§ Mr. HANNONWill the Minister say whether there is any substantial reason whatever from the point of view of the Ministry of Health why those article should be imported into this country at all?
§ Mr. GREENWOOD rose—
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat matter does not arise out of the question.
§ 57. Captain MACDONALDasked the Minister of Health whether he proposes to introduce legislation regulating the production and sale of milk with a view to reducing the incidence of bovine tuberculosis in human beings'!
§ Mr. GREENWOODI am considering this question in consultation with my right hon. Friend, the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.