§ 18 and 19. Dr. Broughtonasked the Minister of Food (1) whether, in view of the need to lessen the incidence of food poisoning, he will introduce to Parliament at an early date the legislation for the purpose of amending the Food and Drugs Acts;
(2) what action he proposes to take to combat the possibility of further mass outbreaks of food poisoning.
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeOutbreaks of food poisoning can only be combated by the vigilance of all concerned with the handling of food. I am anxious to support these efforts by the introduction of legislation to amend the Food and Drugs Act, which I hope will not be long delayed.
§ Dr. BroughtonWhile this long-promised legislation is not the complete solution to the problem of food poisoning, does the Minister agree that in view of the recent outbreak in Lancashire, with more than 1,100 cases, the Government should make every effort to raise the standard of food hygiene? Can we have an assurance from the right hon. and gallant Gentleman that the Government will introduce this Bill at the beginning of the next Session?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeI obviously cannot answer that question. I can give the hon. Gentleman this assurance, however, that I am most anxious to bring this Bill on as soon as possible, and will do everything I can to achieve that purpose.