§ 8. Mr. JOHNSTONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to recent instances where herrings treated with dye have been sold as kippers; whether he is aware that in one instance boxes of kippers coloured with dyestuffs were supplied to a Colchester retailer at 2s. 4d. per box, and retailed by him at 12s. 10d. per box; and what steps he can take to safeguard the public in this regard?
§ The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Guinness)I have been asked to reply. I am aware that it is the practice of some curers to use dyes for improving the appearance of herrings sold as kippers, but there is no power to prevent this practice unless the colouring material used is injurious to health. With regard to the last part of the question, the whole subject of the price of fish is now being investigated by the Food Council.
§ Mr. JOHNSTONAm I to understand that the Government are helpless in a case of this kind where deliberate fraud is being practised?
§ Mr. GUINNESSThis particular case seems to be very exceptional. The wholesale price quoted is about half the average wholesale price, and the retail price is very much higher than the average. I have sent particulars of this particular case to the Food Council, and they are going to inquire into the matter.
§ Mr. WOMERSLEYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this dye is only a vegetable dye. It is not in any way injurious, and, in fact, improves the appearance of the article.