HC Deb 18 June 1942 vol 380 cc1668-9
36. Dr. Summerskill

asked the Minister of Health whether he is satisfied with the arrangement under which the National Milk Scheme guarantees a high standard of quality in milk which has passed through a depôt, but does not protect people served by a producer-retailer not in possession of a pasteurisation plant, or what further steps he proposes to take?

Mr. E. Brown

I welcome the increase in pasteurisation to which the arrangements in paragraph 6 (f) of the White Paper on Milk Policy should contribute. Its further extension must be limited by considerations of what is practicable.

Dr. Summerskill

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that any producer-retailer can sell milk from a tuberculous cow to an unsuspecting mother, and does he not think the public should be afforded some protection?

Mr. Brown

As I say, we do all we can, subject to the limitations of what is practicable. I have every sympathy with the hon. Lady's object.

Mr. Leach

Would it not be better, while being very strict about cleanliness, not to bother about the foolishness of pasteurisation?

Mr. David Adams

Will steps be taken to increase the amount of milk that is pasteurised?