HC Deb 29 June 1964 vol 697 cc146-7W
Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Health if he will make a statement on the memorandum which he sent to all medical officers of health on 19th June, 1964, warning them to take proctective measures against the danger of human infection from tins of beef imported for human consumption into Great Britain; and if he will state the names of the brands he mentioned in the memorandum.

Mr. Barber

Following the receipt of information from the Argentina authorities on 22nd June, my Chief Medical Officer confirmed to all medical officers of health, by letter sent on the same day, provisional advice given to some of them that all cans of any brand bearing the identity Establacimiento No. 1819 Argentina should for the time being be withdrawn from sale as a precautionary measure.

Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Minister of Health, if he is aware that imported tins of beef and foodstuffs from South America and elsewhere have been found in Leith, Edinburgh, Wapping and elsewhere to contain food-poisoning organisms; and, in order to prevent the spread of disease in Britain, if he will appoint a Government inquiry into this problem.

Mr. Barber

Yes. As I informed the hon. and learned Gentleman in answer to a Question on the 15th June the Government are already reviewing these matters.