37. Brigadier-General BROWNasked the Minister of Health how many milk producers have been summoned under the Food and Drugs (Adulteration) Act in England and Wales during 1929 and 1930; in how many cases were convictions recorded, respectively; and whether he will reconsider the case put before him by the Agricultural Council of England and Wales for a revision of the law relating to the sale of milk in this respect?
§ Mr. GREENWOODI regret that the figures asked for are not readily available. I may say, however, that particu- 1938 lars which were specially collected for the last quarter of 1927 showed that during that period there were 280 prosecutions in England and Wales for the sale of adulterated milk and that 200 convictions were recorded. I cannot say in what proportion of these cases the defandant was a producer. I have received a copy of the further report adopted by the Council of Agriculture for England on the law relating to the sale of milk and I will consider it in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.
§ Mr. ALPASSIs it not a fact that, in a large number of these cases, the penalties inflicted are nominal in comparison with the gravity of the offence?
§ Mr. GREENWOODI could not say that without notice, and I am not sure that I should be able to answer it in any case.
Brigadier-General BROWNIs it not a fact that a prosecution may damage the reputation of a man when it is very likely not his fault at all?
Mr. YOUNGI it not apparent, in view of the large increase of consumption among children, that inspection is inadequate?
§ Mr. GREENWOODThat is not the only factor. I believe the quality of the milk is improving.