§ 56. Mr. R. MORRISONasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether his attention has been called to the importation from Poland of large quantities of butter containing from 10 to 35 per cent. of margarine; and whether any steps are being taken to stop the importation of a commodity which it is illegal to sell?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Churchill)About 100 tons of Polish "butter" were recently imported at Cotton's Wharf, London. Samples submitted by the Customs to the Government Chemist showed that the goods came within the prohibition of
margarine containing more than … 10 per cent. of fat derived from milk.The goods had already been detained by the local Medical Officer of Health, who had reason to suspect that they were not butter, as entered and described. The 739 three firms of importers concerned had also caused an analysis to be made, and found that the goods were not of the description which had been ordered, and were adulterated. They have now requested that the goods may be re-exported, and this will be allowed. Instructions are being issued for special vigilance to be exercised in respect of any future importations which appear to be of the same character.