§ 26. Mr. F. Noel-Bakerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food by wham consumer interests will be represented on his new Food Standards Committee; and how these representatives will be selected.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. J. B. Godber)My right hon. Friend hopes soon to announce the names of the members who will serve on the reconstituted Food Standards Committee. The members to represent the interests of consumers will be chosen on the basis of their personal qualifications and experience.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerWill the Minister say when these names will be announced?
§ Mr. GodberI cannot give the precise date, but I hope that it will be very soon.
§ Mr. LiptonWill this reconstitution improve the composition of the Food Standards Committee, which has been engaged in some discussions, such as on the quality of flour and bread, for four years without producing any result?
§ Mr. GodberI agree that some reports take some time, but I would not say 23 that that was a reflection on the merits of the members of the Committee. Some of these matters are very involved indeed.
Mrs. SlaterWill the hon. Gentleman consider appointing a housewife to serve on this sort of body, in view of the fact that housewives are the people who come most closely into contact with food standards?
§ Mr. GodberAs I say, the names will be announced fairly soon. I cannot comment further now, but I have taken note of the hon. Lady's point.