HC Deb 13 December 1927 vol 211 cc2095-7
71. Brigadier-General CLIFTON BROWN

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that certain dairymen advertise and sell tuberculin-tested milk as such without a licence to do so; and whether, in the interests of the public and of the genuine licence-holders, he will issue fresh instructions to stop this growing practice?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of HEALTH (Sir

Following is the answer:

The numbers of emigrants of British nationality from the British Isles to the United States and to Australia, from Scotland to Canada and to New Zealand, and from England to Australia, during each year from 1917 to 1926, and during the eight months ended 31st August, 1927, are shown in the following table:

Kingsley Wood)

A case has been brought to my right hon. Friend's notice in which a dairyman advertises milk as "Tuberculin Tested Milk," although he does not hold a licence under the Milk (Special Designations) Order. My right hon. Friend is advised that proceedings under Section 3 of the Milk and Dairies (Amendment) Act, 1922, would be justified in this case, but he has no power to take these proceedings or to give any instructions to the local authority in the matter.

Brigadier-General BROWN

If the local authorities are not taking steps in the matter, cannot the hon. Member do something to protect the public?

Sir K. WOOD

My right hon. Friend has no power to intervene in a matter of this kind. This is a matter for the local authority, and in our opinion it is a case that ought to be brought to the Courts.

Brigadier-General BROWN

How does the hon. Gentleman expect to encourage the production of tuberculin-tested milk if he allows sales of tuberculin-tested milk by people who have not got the Ministry's licence at all?

Sir K. WOOD

My right hon. Friend has already brought this case to the notice of the authorities concerned, and still hopes something may be done.

Brigadier-General BROWN

Will not the Minister consider putting a mark on tuberculin-tested milk which is properly inspected, so that the public can distinguish it from improperly tuberculin-tested milk?

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