§ 17. Mr. Championasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in his draft regulations prescribing standards for slaughterhouse design, he will ensure 1493 that adequate provision is made for suitable accommodation and space for meat inspection, following the best European standards.
§ Mr. GodberYes, Sir. Adequate provision for meat inspection will be required.
§ Mr. ChampionWho is the hon. Gentleman consulting in this connection? Will he consult the British Veterinary Association, which has an exceptional knowledge in these matters, as well as others?
§ Mr. GodberWe have consulted a very large number of bodies. Without notice I could not be certain, but I should have thought that the B.V.A. would have been consulted.
§ Mr. KimballCan my hon. Friend say when these draft regulations will be published, because the intolerable delay over publishing is causing the greatest inconvenience to local authorities and the meat trade generally?
§ Mr. GodberYes, Sir. I am aware of the need, and I hope that recommended standards in the form of these draft regulations will be published as a White Paper next week. If we get that, I am sure that it will be helpful to all those whom my hon. Friend has in mind.
§ Mr. WilleyDoes the Minister realise that there will be an awful row if his right hon. Friend does not introduce legislation about slaughterhouses next Session?
§ Mr. GodberI realise the concern of the hon. Member and of the House in this matter. I share that concern.