59. Mr. J. P. L. THOMASasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that Manchurian partridges are being imported at the present time into Great Britain; and whether he is satisfied that the conditions under which these birds are trapped and transported are such that their sale in this country complies with the provisions governing the purity of food supplies?
§ Mr. E. BROWNMy right hon. Friend understands that very few of these birds have been imported recently into this country. He has no definite information as to the conditions under which they are trapped and transported, but they are subject to inspection at the ports in this country under the Public Health (Imported Food) Regulations.
Mr. THOMASIf I am able to give the hon. Member evidence that some of these birds are imported into this country in an infected condition, will he consider it with a view to taking the necessary action?
§ Mr. BROWNCertainly, but my hon. Friend will understand that if such is the case they must be subject to these regulations. I may add that in 1930 the total importation of game, including these birds, was only 20 cwts. in the whole year.