HC Deb 25 March 1912 vol 36 cc23-4
Mr. STANIER

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether he will consent to such modifications in the draft Regulations for the restriction of the use of preservatives in cream as to provide that the labelling proposals in the Regulations can be so modified as to be made commercially workable?

Mr. BURNS

The Local Government Board are prepared to receive and consider any representations concerning the proposals in the draft Regulations.

Mr. STANIER

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether he can see his way to delay the operation of the proposed draft Regulations as to preservatives in cream for a month, in order that opportunity may be given to the interested persons to discuss such modifications of the Regulations as will enable them to be carried into effect without detriment to the supply to the public of the articles referred to in the Regulations?

Mr. BURNS

Under the Rules Publication Act, 1893, the Board are required to consider any representations or suggestions which are made in writing by any public body interested before the Order is finally settled. Notice of the intention to make Regulations was published in the "London Gazette" of 20th February, and the statutory period for the making of such representations or suggestions is forty days from that date.

Mr. PETO

Will the right hon. Gentleman also take into consideration the representations made by private individuals, on this matter?

Mr. BURNS

Certainly.

Mr. CROFT

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these Regulations are causing the greatest consternation in the dairy industry throughout the country?

Mr. BURNS

I am not aware that they are causing consternation, but I am aware of the fact that those who know something about the industry are making practical and sensible suggestions without consternation.