HC Deb 20 May 1954 vol 527 cc2262-3
7. Mrs. Braddock

asked the Minister of Health if his attention has been drawn to the recent outbreak of trichinosis in Liverpool; and what action he has taken to make it fully known that this infection is caused by eating raw pork sausage meat.

Mr. Iain Macleod

The Medical Officer of Health of Liverpool reported a localised outbreak of trichinosis there last November, and at the time warned the public through the local and national Press not to eat uncooked pork or pork sausage meat. Only three small outbreaks in England and Wales, of which this was one, have been reported in the past seven years. No further action on my part was called for.

Mrs. Braddock

Is not the Minister aware that this disease is very difficult to diagnose? Does he not agree that if people are made fully aware of how the complaint is contracted it will make them very careful about the things they eat and they will take precautions? In spite of the fact that there have been only one or two localised outbreaks in this country, does he not think that it is a danger and that some special steps should be taken by him to make the situation fully known to the public?

Mr. Macleod

I do not dissent from that. The danger is in eating raw sausage meat as if it were meat paste. Although there have been only three cases, I am prepared to consider whether any further information should be circulated. I am sure that the Question and answer will help in that respect.

Mr. Hastings

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider suggesting to the Minister of Food that a notice should be placed on sausages to the effect that they should only be eaten cooked?

Mr. Macleod

That is a matter for my right hon. and gallant Friend.