§ 24. Mr. Fernyhoughasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that 90,000 tins of meat were dumped into the sea, near Cuxhaven, by the British Army on or about 16th October; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HeadYes, Sir. This tinned meat was found to be infected with bacteria. On medical advice all stocks of this meat were therefore condemned and destroyed.
§ Mr. FernyhoughIs not the position that this meat was found to be in this condition because it had been left in storage too long? Does the right hon. Gentleman not feel that there was great ineptitude and inefficiency, and that it would have been better if the meat had been looked at and distributed to people who would have made good use of it?
§ Mr. HeadNo, Sir. A claim against the suppliers is now being pursued, and I hope as a result of it that there will be no loss of public funds.