HC Deb 27 July 1910 vol 19 cc2110-1
Mr. HUNT

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether, in view of the fact that it is a criminal offence in America to use borax as a preservative of meat, he proposes to take steps to prevent the importation into this country of meat in which borax has been used as a preservative?

Mr. BURNS

In pursuance of the Public Health (Foreign Meat) Regulations, 1908, certain meats such as tongue, tripe, and kidneys, which were formerly imported in pickle containing large quantities of borax, have ceased to be imported, and I do not at present think it necessary to take any further steps in the matter.

Mr. HUNT

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Chief of the Bureau of Animal Industries in America stated in his 23rd report that meat for England might be preserved in borax if it was made under special rules and specially labelled?

Mr. BURNS

Under the Regulations under the Food Act which this House passed in the year 1907 that condition is dealt with.

Mr. HUNT

Is it or is it not the fact that it is continually done according to the Americans themselves?

Mr. BURNS

We do not share the hon. Member's view about the American information.

Mr. KILBRIDE

Is it a fact that the Brazilian Government prohibit the use of borax in the preservation of meat on the ground that it is injurious to the public health?

Mr. BURNS

That may be so.