HC Deb 12 July 1960 vol 626 cc1150-1
9. The Earl of Dalkeith

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been called to the high proportion of poisonous solanine found in early new potatoes imported from an eastern Mediterranean country; and whether he will ensure that such potatoes are not sold unless they have been passed as safe by his Department.

Mr. Maclay

I am aware that an unusually high solanine content was found in potatoes imported into England in March, 1959, but I understand that potatoes from the country in question have not been imparted directly into Scotland. Potatoes, like other imported food, are subject to examination at ports of entry for their fitness for human consumption.

The Earl of Dalkeith

I thank my right hon. Friend for his reply. Is he aware that the report of the Government Chemist points out that potatoes grown in sub-tropical climates are liable to have this high content of solanine? Will he give an assurance that all future cargoes of potatoes from Mediterranean countries will be carefully scrutinised?

Mr. Maclay

I am aware of the problem which my noble Friend has mentioned, but I am certain that the right point of control is the port of entry. I have no doubt that the port authorities concerned are alive to the circumstances in which special attention to the solanine content of imported potatoes is called for.

Mr. Rankin

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell us what solanine is and whether is means "lack of sun" as its name implies? Will he say a little more about this poisonous substance?

Mr. Maclay

It would be more desirable for the hon. Gentleman to consult the textbooks where he would get a fuller and more accurate reply than I can give in answer to a supplementary question.

Mr. MacArthur

Is my right hon. Friend aware of reports that many imported new potatoes are not new potatoes? What steps is he taking to strengthen the procedure whereby the youth or age of imported potatoes is assessed?

Mr. Maclay

That is a fascinating supplementary question, but it does not directly arise from the Question on the Order Paper.

Mr. Stodart

Will my right hon. Friend agree that if there is reason to believe that imported potatoes may contain this poisonous substance, great publicity should be given to his Answer so that the public can learn that there are much better and ample supplies of old potatoes available throughout this country?

Mr. Maclay

My hon. Friend has made his point very well.