§ 76. Mr. DALTONasked the Minister of Health what is the average percentage of moisture in imported butter from New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the Irish Free State, Denmark, Sweden, Poland and the Soviet Union, respectively; what is the maximum percentage permitted in butter sold at retail; and what is the average actual percentage according to the most recent information at his disposal?
§ Sir K. WOODI have no information with regard to the Irish Free State, but I am sending the hon. Member some particulars with regard to the other countries, which I have obtained from the Government chemist. With regard to the second part of the question, butter which, on retail sale, contains more then 16 per cent. of water, is presumed not to be genuine, unless the contrary is proved. I regret that there is no information available with regard to the last part of the question.
§ Mr. DALTONWill the right hon. Gentleman not endeavour to obtain information upon the last part of the question, and as to whether large profits are being made by putting water into pefectly good butter?
§ Sir K. WOODI do not know about that side of it, but I am making some inquiries and will communicate with the hon. Gentleman.