HC Deb 07 November 1916 vol 87 cc49-50
93. Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTT

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether he has considered the advisability of prohibiting the sale of milk until it has been cooled or refrigerated; whether such a measure would enable towns to get their supplies once daily instead of two or three times, thus obviating the necessity for excessively early hours and leading to economy in working expenses; and whether he proposes to take any action?

Mr. TENNANT

Under the provisions of the Milk and Dairies (Scotland) Act, 1914, the Local Government Board have power, with the concurrence of the Board of Agriculture, to make Orders regulating the cooling of milk. The operation of the Act has been suspended in consequence of the War. The Boards are not satisfied that the exercise of these powers would be sufficient to produce the result aimed at in the last part of my hon. Friend's question.

Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTT

Does the right hon. Gentleman propose to seek adequate powers?

Mr. PRINGLE

Is it possible to provide this machinery just now?

Mr. TENNANT

Of course, that is a question for consideration, but the actual conditions under which we are at present living make it very difficult.