§ 7 and 8. Mrs. Castleasked the Minister of Food (1) whether, in order to protect the health of the public and of children in particular, he will make it clear that any manufacturer convicted of selling adulterated sweets will have his licence withdrawn by his Department.
(2) what steps he is taking to ensure that the cheap sweets which are shortly to be de-rationed, will be of a satisfactory standard of quality and not sold to the public under misleading labels.
§ Mr. StracheyLocal authorities are responsible for enforcing the sections of the Food and Drugs Act and the Defence (Sale of Food) Regulations which deal with the adulteration of food and the use of misleading labels. I consider convictions under this Act and these regulations, and, if necessary I shall withdraw licences.
§ Mrs. CastleCan my right hon. Friend explain why it is that the firm of Verva, Limited, recently convicted of selling as sweets at 3d. an ounce lumps of coloured chalk, which were dangerous to the digestion, are still manufacturing for sale sweets like these pellets I have here that were sent to me by the National Union of Small Shopkeepers, who consider them to be trash? Will the Minister say how they get supplies and are allowed to continue to manufacture?
§ Mr. StracheyI cannot go into this case in particular. This is a case where a conviction has taken place. We are certainly willing to consider whether that firm or similarly placed firms are worthy of licence in future.