HC Deb 13 February 1961 vol 634 cc911-2
14. Sir B. Janner

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware that milk delivery firms are considering stopping Sunday deliveries, and that this will result in hardship, particularly for babies and children, having regard to the fact that milk will not be delivered from Saturday mornings until the following Monday morning; and whether he will introduce legislation to ensure that milk is delivered on every day of the week, including Sunday.

Mr. Soames

I am aware that one or two milk distributors propose to experiment on a limited scale with deliveries on six days only per week. This is primarily a matter between the dairyman and his customers. While I shall watch the results of the experiment with interest. I do not think that action on the lines proposed by the hon. Member is called for.

Sir B. Janner

Is the Minister aware that his reply will cause considerable anxiety to consumers, especially in view of the fact that nowadays rounds are zoned so that in some cases milkmen deliver only in the afternoon? Secondly, is he aware that pasteurised milk will be delivered to babies about 1½ days later than it should be? Is he aware that this is a serious matter, apart from the question of the inconvenience to the general public on the days in question? Will he see what he can do to persuade milk distributors not to undertake this kind of experiment, which is bound to cause hardship to consumers in the various districts?

Mr. Soames

As the experiment has not taken place, I think the hon. Gentleman is prejudging the situation when he says that it is bound to cause hardship. The milk distributing industry has a long record of service to the public, which is almost unequalled in any other country, and I do not believe that it would take any step which would diminish the sale of milk.

Sir B. Janner

Will the right hon. Gentleman consult the Minister of Health regarding the position about pasteurised milk being available particularly where there is no refrigerator in the home? Is he aware that babies will not be able to get pasteurised milk and may be given some other kind of food which is not suitable?

Mr. Soames

The hon. Gentleman inferred that there would be a delivery on Saturday morning and not another until Monday afternoon. I do not believe that will necessarily be the case.