§ 22. Dr. Broughtonasked the Minister of Food if he will introduce legislation to supplement the Food and Drugs Acts for the purpose of establishing a standard of hygiene in catering establishments.
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeI hope to do so as soon as Parliamentary business permits.
§ Dr. BroughtonWhile appreciating the Minister's interest in this subject, may I ask him if it is possible for him to persuade his colleagues in the Government to let us have this important legislation by an early date?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeAs the hon. Gentleman appreciates, I shall do it as soon as I possibly can. In the meantime, we are keeping in close touch with the local authorities who are responsible for administering these Acts, and as to catering establishments, I hope that very shortly there will be published a handbook on hygiene which I hope will go to every local authority in the country.
§ Sir H. WilliamsIs my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that if the Opposition had not wasted several hours last night we might have got the Bill through?
§ Dr. StrossCan the right hon. and gallant Gentleman say whether due regard will be had in any proposed legislation, not only to the question of clean food and clean handling, but also to the safety of food with reference to possible additions of suspected chemicals?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeYes, I think every aspect will be considered. In fact, all the preparatory work has already been done.
§ Mr. WilleyDoes not the right hon. and gallant Gentleman agree that the Bill is already drafted and could quite well be taken upstairs?