§ Sir R. THOMASasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether there is any inspection of the factories in Iraq where dates are packed for export to this country; and, if not, whether, in view of the danger of disease being introduced by this means, he will inquire into the conditions of cleanliness under which this industry is carried on?
§ Mr. AMERYStringent measures were taken by the Iraq health authorities during the cholera epidemic of last year to ensure that all dates exported from Iraq were free from any possibility of infection. I am not aware whether under normal conditions the Iraq Government require inspection or consider it necessary. I am, however, asking the High Commissioner for a report on the subject. I am advised that there is no 825W evidence of disease being introduced into this country through the medium of Iraq dates.