HC Deb 18 July 1923 vol 166 cc2294-5
33. Mr. HURD

asked the Minister of Health whether he can state in general terms the results of the milk-feeding experiments among Birmingham Council school children, showing the physiological value of fresh milk as an article of diet, and particularly the effect on children suffering from malnutrition of the addition to their dietary of a pint of fresh milk daily; and whether he will cause to be prepared and published a Report on the experiments for the encouragement of co-operative movements of the same kind between other educational, agricultural, and health authorities?

The MINISTER of HEALTH (Mr. Neville Chamberlain)

It would not be possible, within the limits of an answer to a question in this House, to state even in general terms the results of the experiments referred to in the first part of the question. As regards the second part, I think the question of publishing a Report on the results of these experiments is a matter for the authority responsible for the investigation. I may add that the Ministry of Health, in conjunction with the Medical Research Council, are conducting investigations into the nutritive properties of milk in the feeding of children, and the question of issuing a Report on these investigations will be considered.

Mr. HURD

Will the investigation be of the same partial and misleading kind as that which was held in reference to condensed milk?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I am not aware of any partial and misleading investigation being made.

Mr. A. V. ALEXANDER

Can any good be done in reference to milk supply until the Act of 1915 is put into operation?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

That is a matter of opinion.

Major PAGET

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a pamphlet published on this subject has been sent to Members of Parliament?

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