HC Deb 19 June 1917 vol 94 cc1604-5
71. Mr. STANTON

asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the number of people who have died of poisoning through eating tinned meats, fruits, fish, etc.; and if his Department will make an Order that no tinned goods shall be sold in this country unless the year and date of packing is put plainly upon the labels of such tinned goods?

Mr. HAYES FISHER

I am aware of the occasional occurrence of cases of illness, followed in some instances by fatal results, which have been attributed to the eating of tinned food, but these cases of illness have been for the most part due to bacterial infection not associated with the age of the tin. Inquiries made at different times appear to indicate that the disadvantages which would be likely to attend such a requirement as is suggested would outweigh any advantage likely to be derived from it.