§ 57 and 58. Mr. Butcherasked the Minister of Agriculture (1) whether he is aware that milk products of foreign origin are shipped in bulk in this country and repacked in such a way that the ultimate purchaser is unable to distinguish them from British produce; and will he take steps to prevent this practice in the interests of British producers?
(2) whether he is satisfied that the provisions of the Merchandise Marks Act, 1926, are observed in the case of milk products shipped to this country by foreign merchants?
§ The Minister of Pensions (Mr. Ramsbotham)I have been asked to reply. Imported milk products are subject to the provisions of Section 1 of the Merchandise Marks Act, 1926, which prohibits the sale of imported goods in this country under a British name or trade mark unless it is accompanied by an indication of origin of the goods. Moreover, the Butter Marking Order made under this Act requires imported butter, when sold in this country, to bear an indication of its origin. So far as my right hon. Friend is aware, these requirements are being generally observed, but if my hon. Friend has any information which suggests that they are not, and will communicate it to my right hon. Friend, he will be glad to look into the matter.