HC Deb 22 May 1931 vol 252 c2396
27. Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGE

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been called to infringements connected with the marking of imported Foreign eggs, especially that the eggs are marked with ink which is not indelible; and whether his inspectors carry out tests to see that the eggs are properly marked and that the printing of the word imported is large enough to be noticeable?

Dr. ADDISON

The enforcement of the Egg Marking Order is in the hands of the Customs so far as marking on importation is concerned, and local authorities are empowered to enforce it at the time of exposure for sale or on sale. Reports have reached my Department from time to time that marks on imported eggs are indistinct or entirely absent and in a number of instances local authorities have successfully instituted prosecutions on this account.

Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGE

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that improvements cannot be carried out in the system of inspection, and will he make further inquiries as to whether any alteration is necessary?

Mr. ERNEST WINTERTON

In view of the questionable character of some eggs, can the yolks be stamped?

Dr. ADDISON

As I have said, the inspection of this importation is not under my jurisdiction, but I will inquire into the point.