HC Deb 21 December 1933 vol 284 cc1460-1
17. Brigadier - General CLIFTON BROWN

asked the Minister of Health whether he has yet given consideration to the recommendations of the Milk Reorganisation Commission on the need of amending the Food and Drugs Adulteration Act, 1923; and whether he will take steps to amend the law thereon?

Sir H. YOUNG

Yes, Sir, but I am not yet in a position to make a statement with regard to legislation on this subject.

Brigadier-General BROWN

As the Minister told me last February that he was in communication with the Ministry of Agriculture on this matter, does he not consider that nine months is long enough even for two Government Departments to produce some result?

18. Brigadier-General BROWN

asked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the recommendations of paragraphs 76 and 77 of the Milk Reorganisation Commission as to a revision in the designations of milk, so that the public may know what they are buying; and whether he will introduce legislation on this subject, including a standard to be laid down for accredited producers?

Sir H. YOUNG

I am aware of the recommendations referred to but I am not yet in a position to make any statement respecting legislation on this subject. With regard to accredited producers, I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply given to him on 14th December by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture.

Brigadier-General BROWN

As regards the second part of the question, will the Minister do his best to make this milk scheme a scheme for the production of clean milk and not one which will aim at quantity rather than quality?

Sir H. YOUNG

I can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that the preservation of the purity of the milk supply is a matter which secures the careful attention of the Ministry.

Brigadier-General BROWN

Will the Minister pay attention to these particular recommendations, which indicate the view of those who understand the subject as to the only way of dealing with this matter?

Sir H. YOUNG

Certainly, the most careful consideration is being given to the recommendations to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers.