HC Deb 21 February 1955 vol 537 cc866-7
26. Dr. Broughton

asked the Minister of Food what tests for radioactivity have been applied by his Department to canned fish imported from Japan.

Mr. Amory

None, Sir. I am advised that the risks to public health are negligible.

Dr. Broughton

Is the Minister aware that some thousands of tons of canned fish from Japan were imported into this country in1954, and in view of Press reports that fish with radioactive particles in their bodies have been caught off the Japanese coast since the hydrogen bomb explosion, does he not think it would be wise to test some of this food to find out if it is safe for human consumption?

Mr. Amory

I agree with the hon. Gentleman that this is a very important matter indeed, but the advice that I have had on this matter is both authoritative and definite.

Mr. Beswick

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell us upon what the advice is based, if no tests were made?

Mr. Amory

Not in detail without notice.

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