HC Deb 26 January 1956 vol 548 cc366-7
60. Mr. Awbery

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what research is being undertaken to find more efficient and cheaper methods of sterilising milk; and what figures he has for the cost of sterilising milk by pasteurising and otherwise in the course of this research.

Mr. Amory

Milk may be heat-treated either by pasteurisation or by sterilisation. Research into both processes is conducted by the National Institute for Research in Dairying and by a number of private firms. The cost of pasteurisation varies greatly with circumstances and normally ranges between 1d. and 2d. a gallon. The cost of sterilisation is about the same.

Mr. Awbery

Is the Minister aware that it is estimated that 15 per cent. of the price paid for the milk is charged for sterilising or pasteurising? Will he take steps to hasten the result of new methods of pasteurising?

Mr. Amory

I think the hon. Member will find that those figures are a very long way out. We are prosecuting research, and I am very anxious that as soon as that research produces results those results shall be applied.

Mr. Awbery

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the figures given me show that it costs ½d. a pint to sterilise milk?