§ 24. Mr. Granville Sharpasked the Minister of Health what approximate percentage of human tuberculosis is attributable to bovine infection; how many deaths occurred from this cause during each of the last five years for which records are available; what powers he has to protect the public from this source of infection; and when he proposes using them to the full.
§ Mr. BevanIt is estimated that bovine infection causes less than 2 per cent. of pulmonary cases, 30 per cent. of non-pulmonary cases, and 6 per cent. of all tuberculosis deaths in England and Wales. No powers at present exist to prevent the sale of tuberculous milk until the infected cow is discovered, but the question is under review by the Departments now considering revised Milk and Dairies Regulations.
§ Mr. SharpCan the Minister say how long this matter has been under review and when a decision may be expected?
§ Mr. BevanVery shortly, I hope. It has been under consideration for some time, but it is a complicated matter.
§ Mr. Somerville HastingsIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that most of these deaths could be prevented by the pasteurization of milk?