HC Deb 22 July 1963 vol 681 cc1033-4
11. Mrs. Butler

asked the Minister of of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied with the effects on health of the Preservatives in Food Regulations, 1962; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

Yes, Sir. The Regulations lay down what preservatives may be used in what foods, and up to what amounts. We are satisfied that this is the right way to control the use of preservatives and that the uses which are permitted present no hazard to health.

Mrs. Butler

Since the Minister has had to introduce special regulations to deal with the hazards to health of antibiotics in milk, can he say what study is being made of the effects on health of antibiotics used in ice to preserve fish, particularly in view of the claim of the industry that most of the residue of antibiotics in fish is destroyed in cooking?

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

I note what the hon. Lady says, but all regulations on food additives are reviewed periodically by the Food Standards Committee. If any doubt were cast on them by the Committee, I would take immediate action on what it suggested.

Mr. Darling

Is the Parliamentary Secretary satisfied that the Food Standards Committee is able to work quickly enough and on a big enough scale in these matters? Is it not time that the working of the Food Standards Committee itself, which has been very satisfactory indeed, should be reviewed to see whether it can work more speedily?

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

One always wants these committees to work as quickly as they can, but this Committee is working reasonably rapidly. The sub-committee is examining special items. On the whole, I think these committees are working with reasonable efficiency.

12. Mrs. Butler

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he expects to receive the report of the panel under the chairmanship of Dr. Barnell inquiring into residues of pesticides in foodstuffs.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

This is a panel of the Scientific Sub-Committee of the Advisory Committee on Poisonous Substances and it hopes to submit its initial findings to the sub-committee in the autumn.

Mrs. Butler

Why was no mention made of this survey when the Parliamentary Secretary replied to my Questions on 1st April and 6th May on this subject? In view of the fact that the survey paid particular attention to residues of chlorinated hydrocarbons, including D.D.T., in foodstuffs and their effect on health, does the hon. Gentleman propose to issue any warning to gardeners and farmers to treat with caution the Ministry's advice and approval of these chemicals until the report of the panel is received?

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

I think we should wait until the panel has reported and have seen its recommendations. In fact, I referred to this when I spoke in the Adjournment debate on this subject.