§ MR. H. H. MARKSI beg to ask the President of the Local Government board whether he is aware that between 19th July, 1906, and 13th September, 1906, 418 tons of meat were seized and condemned at Smithfield Market, 395 tons of which were described as putrid; what proportion of this meat came from the United States and the Argentine Republic respectively; what system of inspection is in operation at Smithfield Market; how many officials are engaged upon the work; and whether the inspections are made periodically or merely on the occasions of surprise visits.
§ THE PRESIDENT OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Mr. JOHN BURNS,) BatterseaI am aware of the facts stated in the first part of the Question. Of the 418 tons of meat referred to, about 24 tons came from the United States and about 232 tons from the Argentine Republic. The inspecting staff at Smithfield Market consists of five inspectors under the direction of a chief inspector, and help is occasionally given by men not on the permanent staff. The market is divided into sections for purposes of inspection, and the inspector for the time being in charge of a given section makes systematic tours through the salesmen's stalls. For further information relative to the system of inspection I would refer the hon. Member to a Report made to the Local Government board by Dr. Buchanan, one of their medical inspectors, a copy of which I will send him.
§ MR. H. H. MARKSDoes the right hon. Gentleman contemplate any steps to prevent the importation into this country of putrid meat?
§ MR. JOHN BURNSI hope the Bill now before the House may prevent a repetition of this and rectify deficiencies in the law as it now stands.