HC Deb 21 May 1953 vol 515 c2232
9. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of Health whether he will consider setting up a committee to inquire into the reasons for the increase of illness in the community at the present time, giving particular attention to the effect on health of foods to which chemicals have been added.

Mr. Iain Macleod

I am not aware to what increase of illness the hon. Member refers, but I do not think there is any need for such a committee as he suggests. The addition of chemicals to food is a matter constantly before my right hon. and gallant Friend the Minister of Food and myself and is already the subject of several investigations.

Mr. Janner

Is the Minister not aware that there is a considerable number of people, particularly children, who cannot absorb or digest these chemicals, and that this constantly growing addition of chemicals to food is a serious matter? Will he not see what can be done to improve the position?

Mr. Macleod

Investigations are at present going on by the M.R.C. and by a Working Party under Professor Zuckerman, which has just reported, and most detailed investigations are going on under the auspices of my right hon. and gallant Friend the Minister of Food. I should have thought it was unnecessary to add to the many committees that are already examining the matter.