52. Mr. Thorneycroftasked the Parliatary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that during the five weeks ended 29th October five tons of fish and 18½ tons of shellfish were condemned in Manchester; and will he take steps to prevent this wastage of valuable food?
§ Mr. MabaneFive tons of fish were condemned during the five weeks ended 29th October because it was bad. It was condemned for the most part in small lots and included small quantities in retail shops. It represents 0.5 per cent. of the fish sent to the Manchester wholesale market during the period. Of the 18½ tons of shellfish condemned, 18¼ tons were mussels, the greater part of which arrived in an unsound condition. I cannot agree that such condemnation of unfit food represents avoidable waste.
Mr. ThorneycroftIs the hon. Gentleman aware that in the 12 months ending October of this year 186 tons of fish were condemned in Manchester, and is he satisfied that there is no negligence or lack of organisation?
§ Mr. MabanePerhaps the hon. Member will put that Question on the Order Paper.