§ 29. Mr. HALESasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that large quantities of chipped, crazed, and cracked earthenware are in general use in hotels and restaurants throughout the country; and whether, having regard to the danger 1651 of infection by the use of this ware, he will take the necessary steps to prohibit the use of such defective pottery?
§ The MINISTER of HEALTH (Sir Kingsley Wood)Apart from the fact that the legislative powers which my hon. Friend apparently wishes me to seek would be very drastic, I am advised that the danger of infection from damaged earthenware is negligible if it is properly washed, and I do not think it necessary, therefore, to take the action suggested in the last part of the question.
§ Mr. HALESIs my right hon. Friend aware that the Australian Government long ago prohibited the use of this defective ware, that the medical profession are unanimous as to its dangers, and also that washing is utterly useless when the glaze has gone; and, in order that my right hon. Friend may be more conversant with the matter, will he examine this cup which I have brought to him for his inspection?