HC Deb 10 November 1949 vol 469 cc1388-9
44. Mr. John Morrison

asked the Minister of Health to what causes he attributes the recent increase in cases of food poisoning.

Mr. Bevan

No precise answer can be given. But more information is being received, analysis of which may throw further light on the causes of the increase. So far as concerns pre-war figures, I should point out that the apparent increase is probably largely due to increased information and investigation.

Mr. Morrison

Can the Minister say whether he has gone into the details of food kept in cold storage over long periods? Does he not think that that has something to do with it?

Mr. Bevan

All the inquiries that are relevant are being made. I would not alarm people unduly by assuming that there is an absolute increase.

Mr. Peter Freeman

Would my right hon. Friend consider what steps can be taken to make the facts of such food poisoning public, as they are often suppressed both in respect of the nature of the food and the reason for the poisoning and as a result the public are not aware of the facts?

Mr. Bevan

I am entirely unaware that the facts are suppressed. Where there is a fatality, and a coroner's inquest is held all the facts are very well known.

Mr. Skeffington-Lodge

Will my right hon. Friend agree that the standard of personal hygiene of many people in this country is still deplorably low, and that this has an important bearing on this question?

Mr. Hubbard

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the recent series of articles in the "Daily Herald" will go a long way towards the education of the public in this matter?

Mr. Bevan

I think that there is growing awareness of the necessity of cleanly habits in the handling of food in the shops and depots and in the homes. I am hoping that the public education which is now taking place will have the effect of raising standards.