§ 43. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Health, in view of the special health risks connected with unsound meat, what precautions he has laid down for regulating generally the treatment and disposal of food unfit for human consumption.
§ Miss PittThe law requires the justice who condemns food intended for human 868 consumption to order it to be destroyed or so disposed of as to prevent it from being consumed.
§ Mr. DoddsIs the hon. Lady aware that since 1954 the disposal of unfit meat from slaughter houses and knackers' yards has been the subject of discussion? Formerly it was either sterilised or steamed. Is she aware that several Ministers have spoken about the urgency of this matter but even now in 1959 discussions are still taking place? What is holding matters up?
§ Miss PittUnfit meat from knackers' yards is the responsibility of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, but on the question of health there is a joint responsibility. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and my right hon. and learned Friend have this matter under consideration at the moment.