HC Deb 02 April 1930 vol 237 cc1279-80
67. Dr. SALTER

asked the Home Secretary whether he is now in a posi- tion to present an interim Report upon the investigations which have been carried out by the Scientific and Industrial Research Committee on the disinfection of hides and skins from anthrax?

Mr. SHORT

These investigations are being carried on not by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, but by the British Leather Manufacturers' Research Association, but some account of the progress of the research is given on page 130 of the recently published Annual Report of the Department for 1928–29 (Cmd. 3471). I understand that a full account of the results will probably be published, in a scientific journal, but my right hon. Friend proposes to consult with the association as to whether some advance statement should not be issued, and he will communicate the result to my hon. Friend in due course.

Mr. MACKINDER

In view of the large number of deaths occuring through anthrax in hides and skins, would it not be advisable to appoint a Departmental Committee, as in the case of wool?

Mr. SHORT

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that down.