HC Deb 19 January 1971 vol 809 cc709-10
22. Mrs. Joyce Butler

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what changes he is proposing in the Arsenic in Food Regulations, 1959 to take account of the increasing use of organic arsenical substances in animal feeding; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Anthony Stodart

None. The Arsenic in Food Regulations, 1959, strictly limit the amount of arsenic which may be present in food for sale for human consumption, irrespective of its origin.

Mrs. Butler

In view of some of the high levels of arsenic which have been found in pig's livers by county inspectors in farms in various parts of the country, could the hon. Gentleman at least ask the appropriate committee to look at these regulations to make sure that they are adequate to cope with modern conditions?

Mr. Stodart

I am prepared to do that, although my information is that the episodes to which the hon. Lady refers have been minute in number. However, I am ready to ask for the matter to be looked into.

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