§ 78. Sir P. Hurdasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware of the practice of selling imported frozen pig-meat as British bacon after curing in this country; and whether steps will be taken to ensure that only pigs which are bred, fed, and cured here shall be retailed as British bacon?
§ The Minister of Pensions (Mr. Ramsbotham)I have been asked to reply. Substantial quantities of frozen pork, imported largely from the Dominions, are cured in this country and sold as "home-cured," but my right hon. Friend is not aware that it is the practice to sell this bacon as "British." If my right hon. Friend's information is correct, the second part of my hon. Friend's question does not arise, but, if he will supply my right hon. Friend with any evidence of possible offences against the Merchandise Marks Acts or Orders in this connection, he will be glad to have inquiries made.
§ Sir P. HurdWill my hon. Friend ask the Minister to be kind enough to send an inspector to Smithfield? Does he realise how far this deceptive practice has gone, and how it misleads the housewife and injures the British bacon industry?
§ Mr. RamsbothamPerhaps my hon. Friend will let the Minister have some evidence first.
§ Sir P. HurdWill he send an inspector to Smithfield?
§ Mr. RamsbothamMy right hon. Friend is not aware of, and has no evidence of, the practice in question.
§ Sir P. HurdWill he obtain the evidence by sending an inspector to Smithfield?
§ Mr. Garro JonesIs it not the case that, if the Government refuse to recognise that any initiative lies with them to take any action, that will encourage evasion of the law?
§ Mr. RamsbothamI cannot accept that. If my hon. Friend has some information that he can place at the disposal of my right hon. Friend, my right hon. Friend will be very glad to go into it.
§ Sir P. HurdThe information is obtainable at Smithfield.