64. Mr. David Adamsasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the Medical Officer of Health for North umberland states that the position regarding milk generally throughout the county is unsatisfactory; that of 112 registered cow-keepers in the Castle Ward Rural District, Northumberland, a few only have cowsheds which comply with the Ministry's standard, and that this is representative of the county generally; and what steps he proposes to protect the public against the risks of milk produced under such conditions?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Miss Horsbrugh)As my hon. Friend will be aware, the enforcement of the provisions of the Milk and Dairies Order relating to methods of production is a matter which is in the hands of the appropriate local authorities. My right hon. Friend will, however, cause inquiries to be made into the case to which my hon. Friend refers in order to see if there is any action which he can usefully take.
Mr. AdamsIs the hon. Lady aware that it is from these farms that dangerous milk is produced, that veterinary inspection is not obligatory and that thousands of cows have never been inspected by a veterinary officer?
§ Miss HorsbrughI think my hon. Friend is going further in what he suggests than can be done under our present legislation, but my right hon. Friend is making inquiries in the particular case which he has in mind.
§ Miss Horsbrugh indicated assent.