88. Sir F. HALLasked the Food Controller whether he is aware that over 100 tons of poor-conditioned imported meat, worth about £12,000, was condemned during the period from the 13th to 17th July; who was responsible for the purchase and exportation of this meat from abroad; what steps are being taken to obviate such mistakes in the future; whether instructions have been cabled that no further quantities of emaciated cow-meat are to be purchased in future; and what was the date when such instructions were given?
§ Major ASTORThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The meat in question was of sound quality, but became unfit for consumption owing to defective refrigerating arrangements in the vessel on which it was shipped. The contracts for purchase have always provided that the meat should be of good quality; the conditions of shipment are now being supervised by a special representative of the Ministry of Food.