HC Deb 23 June 1953 vol 516 c133W
Dr. Broughton

asked the Minister of Health the precise cause, and the full extent, of the recent widespread outbreak of food poisoning in Lancashire.

Mr. Iain Macleod

The precise cause of the outbreak is the consumption of infected meat pies manufactured between 10th and 12th June. The identification of the method of infection of such pies is always difficult and is not yet complete, but the action taken a week ago to stop manufacture and distribution has prevented further spread. 1,131 notifications have been received up to date distributed as follows:

  • Lancashire County Districts—740 (23 in hospital).
  • Preston—201 (five in hospital).
  • Blackpool—187 (four in hospital).
  • Blackburn—three.
There have been two deaths. The increase in numbers over those reported last week is mainly due to late notification.