§ Mr. HUNTasked the Secretary of State for War whether, when he contracted to get the frozen and tinned meat for the Army from America, he was aware that under the American regulations the carcases of animals from which parts affected by tuberculosis, malignant tumours and abscesses, and other diseases have been cut out are stamped as sound and fit for human food by the American Government; and whether, in the future, he will decline to feed the Army on American meat until the American Government alters its regulations?
§ Mr. HALDANEI am not aware of the American regulations mentioned. As re- 1018 gards the Army supply of frozen meat all necessary precautions are taken to ensure that this meat is perfectly good and fit before consumption by the troops. Only complete quarters of frozen meat from America are accepted under the contract conditions. Preserved meat canned in America for Army contracts is prepared under the direct supervision of an expert Army Service Corps officer, who also inspects the cattle before and after slaughter.
§ Mr. KILBRIDEWill the right hon. Gentleman ascertain from the Swift Beef Company of America, who have at present a contract for supplying meat for three days a week to the Curragh, that they do not use any meat which formed part of an animal that had been condemned for any of these diseases?
§ Mr. HALDANENo. Of course we take care to guard against that. We prefer to rely on our own officers.
§ Mr. KILBRIDEIs it not a fact that meat canned or frozen in America from an animal part of which has been diseased would not be allowed to be used by several of the local authorities in England?
§ Mr. HALDANEWe do not allow it to be used in the Army.
§ Mr. HUNTDoes the right hon. Gentleman understand that the American regulations do allow carcases to be used as food from which malignant tumours have been cut, and that some of the meat is sent over here for the use of the British Army?
§ Mr. HALDANEI have already given an answer in plain language.
§ Mr. JOHN O'CONNORWhat is the reason for ordering this meat at all? Is there any shortage in the supplies of meat from the plains of Kildare?
§ Mr. HALDANEThis is excellent and wholesome food, and I have no doubt it is excellent and wholesome food from the plains of Kildare, but does the hon. Member say it can be supplied at the rates which we are now paying?
§ Mr. HUNTIs it excellent and wholesome food which is got from carcases from which malignant tumours have been cut out?
§ Mr. HALDANENo.