§ 32. Mr. Wainwrightasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will seek immediate consultations with the Federation of British Port Wholesalers' Association on the antibiotic treatment of fish; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsThe use of certain antibiotics for the preservation of raw fish is now permitted by the Preservatives Regulations, and my right lion. Friend the Minister of Health proposes to make the corresponding changes in the law governing the sale of these substances. My right hon. Friend would, of course, pay close attention to any point the Federation might raise with him.
§ Mr. WainwrightIs there not a difference of opinion within the fishing industry about the value of antibiotics in the preservation of fish, and will the hon. Gentleman do what he can to ensure that, in regard to any research which is undertaken, the method of communication down to everyone concerned is such that everyone knows exactly what is happening in this very important matter?
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsMy answer to the second part of the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question is, "Yes, Sir, I 22 will". A tremendous amount of consultation is ping on with all the interests concerned, and I assure the hon. Gentleman that it will continue.