§ 36. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of of Food if he is aware of the concern at the large stocks of condensed milk held by his Department when liquid milk is plentiful; and what action is being taken to ensure that stocks are disposed of before becoming unfit for human consumption.
Dr. HillMy Department agreed in 1954 to dispose of the balance of its commercial stocks of condensed milk over a period, so as to avoid dislocating the home manufacturing and marketing programme. The greater part of the stock has already been sold and sales are continuing satisfactorily.
§ Mr. DoddsWhile I appreciate the point about " over a period," is it not a fact that much of the condensed milk was bought in 1953 with a guarantee of about six months in which it would be fit for human consumption? Are not the Dutch Government upset that the milk will be sold miscoloured, which will be a very bad advertisement for the product?
Dr. HillThe stocks of condensed milk are regularly examined and the proportion found to be unsound is no greater than it was some years ago. The position is carefully watched all the time.
§ Mr. DoddsIs it not a fact that the guarantee given for it in 1953 was six months and that, like cheese, it will be kept too long and once against the taxpayers will have to pay for it?