19. Mrs. Butlerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, as representing the Lord President of the Council, what arrangements are proposed for testing for radioactivity all milk intended for processing into dried milk, in view of the increase of caesium 137 found in dried milk in all areas of Great Britain in June. 1958.
§ Mr. GodberThe radioactive material which merits the most immediate attention is strontium 90. The current monitoring programme covers 40 per cent. of the total milk production in the United Kingdom and includes a check to indicate the general level of contamination by caesium 137. The extent of the effort devoted to the study of radioactive elements other than strontium 90 is kept under regular review.
Mrs. ButlerWhile appreciating that reply, may I ask whether the hon. Gentleman is aware that this caesium is the most strong in its genetic effects of all the elements of fall-out and, therefore, it would seem necessary to take very special precautions in the interests of future generations and also to make known as 11 quickly and as widely as possible the results of researches which have been undertaken on this subject?
§ Mr. GodberYes, Sir, I would accept the importance of this matter. I assure the hon. Lady that we shall keep as close a watch on it as possible.