§ 60. Mr. Noel-Bakerasked the Minister of Food whether, in the light of the petition from more than 1,000 citizens of Derby, he will now disallow the reopening of a slaughterhouse in a congested area where 80 children reside within 100 yards; and whether he will introduce 21W legislation to enable local authorities to prevent the opening of slaughterhouses where those authorities so desire.
Dr. HillAs far as I am aware, no petition has been received. The use of these premises has been licensed under the Food and Drugs Act, which provides that a person aggrieved by the refusal of a local authority to grant or renew a licence may appeal to the courts. Such an appeal was made in this case.
My right hon. and gallant Friend has no power to override the decision of the courts.