HC Deb 25 June 1917 vol 95 cc8-9
33. Mr. FERENS

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether his attention has been called to the loss of imported food, especially in Danish bacon and onions, on the Hull docks; and what steps he proposes to take to prevent a recurrence of such waste?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

The Food Controller's attention has been called to this matter, and inquiries are being made with a view to determining the precise cause of delay in each case, and the steps which should be taken to prevent similar delay, if possible, in future. As was pointed out, however, in answer to the hon. Member for Devizes on 2nd June, one of the causes of difficulty was the simultaneous arrival of a large number of Danish boats, whose journey had been delayed through causes beyond control.

Mr. FERENS

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that owing to slower transit on sea and land because of the War there is the possibility of Danish bacon being rendered unfit for human food, and will he communicate with the Danish authorities with a view to securing improvement in the matter?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I am aware that Danish bacon does not last so long as bacon cured in other places. I will forward to the Food Controller the suggestion of the right hon. Gentleman.

Back to