HC Deb 16 June 1938 vol 337 c394
67. Mr. Acland

asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been drawn to the recommendation of the recent Agricultural Research Council's special report on the desirability of immediate action in relation to the question of milk churns being returned from distributors and factories to the producers in an unclean condition, both physically and bacteriologically; and what action does he propose to take thereon?

Mr. Elliot

Yes, Sir. The Milk and Dairies Order, 1926, already places definite obligations on a dealer with regard to cleanliness of churns returned empty by him to the producer; and also on the producer with regard to the cleansing and scalding with boiling water or steam of all vessels used for containing milk.

Mr. Acland

As this recent report shows that, in spite of the existence of the Order, churns which are not clean are being returned to the producers, will the right hon. Gentleman take some steps this year to see that the report for next year shall not contain that same statement?

Mr. Elliot

I think this is a matter of administration, but I will take what steps I can.

Mr. Macquisten

Will my right hon. Friend see that this super-pasteurisation is stopped?