§ 25. Mr. FENBYasked the Minister of Health how many health authorities have appointed qualified whole-time meat inspectors; how many have appointed part-time qualified meat inspectors; and how many have attached the duty of meat inspection to officials not specifically qualified for the purpose?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI regret that I cannot give precise information on these points. Except in a few cases, where veterinary surgeons have been specially appointed for the purpose, meat inspection is usually performed by sanitary inspectors, and I am glad to say that the number of these officers who, in addition to the ordinary training in meat inspection, have obtained a special qualification in the subject, is rapidly increasing. In most of the principal boroughs and in many of the larger urban districts whole-time food inspectors possessing this qualification are employed.
§ Mr. FENBYAm I to understand that the right hon. Gentleman is perfectly satisfied with the efficiency of the meat inspection throughout the municipalities?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI would not say that I am perfectly satisfied, but I am satisfied that the efficiency is rapidly increasing.