HC Deb 29 October 1956 vol 558 cc1056-7
32. Sir I. Fraser

asked the Minister of Health what further discussions have taken place with the shrimp fishing and potting industry; and what further amendments he will make in the Food Hygiene Regulations before 31st December, 1956.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Miss Patricia Hornsby-Smith)

Proposals for amending this Regulation were sent at the beginning of September for comment to the fishermen's associations, the local authorities and other interested bodies and persons. The replies received are being considered. It is not possible yet to say what the details of the amendment will be.

Sir I. Fraser

They will be published well before the end of the year, will they not?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

I cannot give an estimate until we receive all the replies, but, so far, the replies received to date are fairly favourable to the recommendations.

Sir I. Fraser

Does the hon. Lady realise that if they are not dealt with before the end of the year, then the old penal regulations will come into force?

Miss Hornsby-Smith

I fully appreciate my hon. Friend's concern, but I am sure that he is as desirous as we are of consulting all the bodies interested in this piece of legislation. The delay at the moment is with some of those bodies.