§ MR. A. MOOREasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, What steps, if any, have been taken by the Irish Government to put in force the provisions of "The Food and Drugs Act, 1875," relating to the detection of adulterated liquor?
§ MR. J. LOWTHERSir, In 1875 and 1876 the Local Government Board in Ireland addressed circular letters to each of the urban and rural sanitary authorities, drawing their attention to the provisions of the Act, and making suggestions as to the steps that should be taken. In 1877 the Irish Government issued a circular to the secretaries of Grand Juries and town clerks of boroughs, informing them that police constables were authorized to assist the local authorities in carrying out the provisions of the Act. By the 13th section of the Act, it will be found that one of the duties of the constable so employed related to the very point to which the hon. Gentleman refers—namely, the detection of adulterated liquor. In case any mistake should have arisen, I have directed another circular to be prepared on the subject which will meet the case.