HC Deb 10 February 1965 vol 706 cc373-4
26. Sir Richard Glyn

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he proposes to include arsanilic acid in the Veterinary Safety Precautions Scheme; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. John Mackie

The question of clearance of this substance under the Veterinary Products Safety Precautions Scheme is still under consideration.

Sir Richard Glyn

Will the hon. Gentleman suggest to his right hon. Friend that this matter is of sufficient importance to be taken out of the unfortunate position of being enclosed with so many other hundreds of measures being looked at or which are under consideration? Those concerned with this important matter would feel happier if we were told that it was put under the blotting paper or was at least in such a position that it might be acted on more quickly?

Mr. Mackie

As the hon. Gentleman knows very well, poisons and additives in food are a very important matter which cannot hastily be judged. The Advisory Committee which deals with this matter takes very great care to ensure that the matter is dealt with properly. Any hasty action would be to the detriment of the consumer. As the hon. Gentleman knows, accidents with drugs have happened.