HC Deb 10 April 1940 vol 359 cc672-4

7.58 p.m.

Mr. David Adams (Consett)

In accordance with notice I desire to raise the question of the pasteurisation of certain grades of milk consumed in this country, and which, in their present form, are unfit for human consumption. The subject was raised in a Question which I addressed to the Minister of Health: Whether, in view of the additional duties placed upon local authorities due to war conditions and the consequent danger that the supervision of milk supplies in the matter of the inspection of farm premises, storage and handling of milk and the collecting and testing of samples may be relaxed, he will take steps to secure the universal adoption of pasteurisation by the collection and treatment of all milk in central depots, or at least of non-designated milk, thereby eliminating the danger to consumers of diseases from this latter source? The Minister replied: No, Sir. I do not contemplate the introduction in present circumstances of the legislation which would be necessary to effect the object which the hon. Member has in mind."—[OFFICIAL REPORT, 7th March; col. 549, Vol. 358.] I think it is generally agreed in the medical world that non-designated milk has not been tuberculin-tested, is not free from deleterious matter and may, and in point of fact does, contain diseased organisms which may be communicated to consumers. Under proper conditions this milk should be rendered by treatment safe for human consumption. I was disappointed that the Minister gave so specific a reply, and I hope that to-night the Parliamentary Secretary may somewhat modify that refusal.

Mr. Speaker

Did I understand the hon. Member to say that the reply of the Minister was that this matter would need legislation?

Mr. Adams

That was the reply.

Mr. Speaker

Then the hon. Member cannot raise the matter on the Adjournment.

Mr. Adams

May I not deal with the subject generally, without asking for legislation?

Mr. Speaker

Certainly not. If it needs legislation to do what the hon. Member desires it is quite out of Order for him to raise the subject on the Adjournment.

Question, "That this House do now adjourn," put, and agreed to.

Adjourned accordingly at One Minute after Eight o'Clock.