HC Deb 18 June 1931 vol 253 cc1937-8
37. Brigadier-General BROWN

asked 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. GREENWOOD

I regret that the figures asked for are not readily available. I may say, however, that particu- 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. ALPASS

Is 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. GREENWOOD

I could not say that without notice, and I am not sure that I should be able to answer it in any case.

Brigadier-General BROWN

Is 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. YOUNG

I it not apparent, in view of the large increase of consumption among children, that inspection is inadequate?

Mr. GREENWOOD

That is not the only factor. I believe the quality of the milk is improving.