HC Deb 18 January 1945 vol 407 cc350-1
32. Mr. Harry Thorneycroft

asked the Minister of Health whether he has yet considered the representations made to him by the Manchester City Council, on 19th December, 1944, upon the use of unclean fillings in bedding, upholstery and other domestic articles; and will be, in the interests of public health, take steps without delay to grant to local authorities further statutory powers to enable them to ensure the cleanliness of all fillings used in the manufacture of such articles.

Miss Horsbrugh

The answer to the first part of the Question is "Yes, Sir." As indicated in a letter sent to the Council on 22nd December, arrangements are now being made for the resumption of the sittings of the Departmental Committee which has this whole subject under review.

Mr. Thorneycroft

Is the right hon. Lady aware that Manchester is one of the largest centres for the manufacture of these articles, and that the local authority there have had complaints for a long time about the damage caused to public health by the continuance of this filthy practice, yet have been unable to take any action because they have no powers?

Miss Horsbrugh

Yes, Sir, that is why this Committee is looking into the whole matter to see how it can better be dealt with.