HC Deb 24 April 1961 vol 639 cc10-1
15. Mr. Lipton

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has considered the representations he has received on the Food Standard Committee's Report on Bread and Flour; and what action he will now take.

Mr. Soames

I know the hon. Member's interest in this important question, but I must remind him that there are a large number of recommendations in the Report and the representations I have received raise many complicated issues. I shall make a statement as soon as I have had time to consider them.

Mr. Lipton

While not being surprised at the Minister's typically indecisive reply, may I ask him when the Government will do something about ensuring that decent bread, instead of the present unsatisfactory product, is available for the long-suffering public? Has he not had more than two months in which to consider the representations that he has received and, after many years, is it not time that something happened?

Mr. Soames

I have nothing to add to what I have said to the hon. Gentleman on the numerous occasions that he has tabled Questions on this matter in the recent past.

Mr. Shinwell

Does the right hon. Gentleman understand that some of us appreciate his caution, because it is obvious that as long as he is cautious he will not make any mistakes?

Mr. Soames

The right hon. Gentleman should know.