HC Deb 10 March 1958 vol 584 cc4-5W
19. Mr. Edward Evans

asked the Minister of Health. whether he is aware of the increasing number of deaths and severe illness caused by young children being given peanuts; what is the number of these accidents; if he is aware that at least two coroners have made strong comment in regard to this practice; and if he will take steps to warn the public against this danger to young children and infants.

Mr. R. Thompson

There are no figures available of the number of such accidents which would show whether the numbers were increasing, but I am aware of some recent cases through Press reports. Advice on the feeding of young children is already available through the maternity and child welfare services and I do not think any special steps are called for.