HC Deb 22 January 1931 vol 247 c354
59. Mr. ARTHUR MICHAEL SAMUEL

asked the Minister of Health whether he will take steps to arrange that legs, shoulders, sides, saddles and other parts of mutton and lamb shall be passed by medical officers before the meat is shipped so that no meat cut from carcases suspected of, or showing evidences of, caseous lymphadenitis shall be allowed to reach United Kingdom ports?

Mr. GREENWOOD

This matter is now receiving my consideration.

Mr. SAMUEL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that that is no more than what he said a month ago? Is he still allowing the public to eat food from diseased animals?

Mr. GREENWOOD

I am not sure that that assertion is true. Like myself, the hon. Member is a little concerned. I am anxious to do all that is necessary to protect the public interest.

60. Mr. SAMUEL

asked the Minister of Health whether he still permits the sale for human consumption of portions of imported mutton and lamb cut from carcases in which there has been evidence or suspicion of caseous lymphadenitis?

Mr. GREENWOOD

The recommendation which for many years has been made by my Department to local authorities, and is I understand generally adopted at the ports, is that the whole carcase should be destroyed where evidence of this disease is found.

Mr. SAMUEL

Is that being carried into effect?

Mr. GREENWOOD

Practically universally, I understand. I have never heard of the instructions being ignored.