§ 38. Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURYasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he can give approximate figures showing the numbers of millions of tons of machine-skimmed condensed milk that are coming into this country; whether he is aware that this separated condensed milk, which comes so readily to this country, is refused in every other country, including the country in which it is produced; and whether he can take steps to hold an inquiry to see whether steps should be taken to prevent its use in this country?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI have been asked to reply. The imports of machine skimmed condensed milk in 1926 were approximately 88,000 tons. I am not aware that the importation of this article is prohibited in any country except Chile, Cuba and certain British Colonies and Protectorates, nor, so far as I know, is its sale prohibited in any of the countries in which it is principally produced.
As regards the last part of the question, I would refer to the answer which I gave to the hon. and gallant Member for Tiverton, on the 28th April.
§ Mr. PALINGIs not the main reason why this tinned milk has such a large sale in this country the low wages which are paid, and that the people cannot afford to buy real milk?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTECan the right hon. Gentleman say whether this milk is produced under conditions similar to those which are laid down under the Milk and Dairies Order?
Viscountess ASTORIs it not true that no matter what the wages are they could buy the milk if they were not so busy buying beer?