HC Deb 19 February 1953 vol 511 cc1445-6
45. Mr. Dodds

asked the Minister of Agriculture what progress has been made in permitting penicillin and aureomycin to be used in the diet for fattening pigs.

Sir T. Dugdale

The Therapeutic Substances (Prevention of Misuse) Bill, which provides for the amendment of the Penicillin Act, 1947, so as to give power to permit this practice, has received a Second. Reading in another place.

Mr. Dodds

While famous experts on this matter have declared that more harm than good can be done in mixing these substances with animal feeding-stuffs, can users be assured that there will be no harmful effect so far as they are concerned?

Sir T. Dugdale

I think that is a different question from the one on the Order Paper but all these points will be borne in mind.

Mr. Hastings

Before considering this matter, will the right hon. Gentleman be concerned to ensure that there are sufficient penicillin and aureomycin in this country for the needs of persons like ourselves?

Sir T. Dugdale

Yes, Sir, most certainly.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

May I ask whether we have all gone mad to want to give penicillin to pigs to fatten them? Why not give them good food, as God meant them to have?