Food and Drugs Acts

HC Deb 05 April 1977 vol 929 cc481-2W

29. Mr. Bowden

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with the operation of the Food and Drugs Acts.

Mr. Moyle

I assume that the hon. Member has in mind the operation of the Act in relation to the control of catering establishments. I am satisfied that existing legislation contains sufficient provisions to enable enforcement authorities to ensure the maintenance of satisfactory standards. I am aware that some local authorities have found it difficult with present financial restraints to enforce the legislation as effectively as they would wish. As is made clear in the joint circular on the rate support grant settlement 1977–78, the Government assume that local authorities will maintain to a basic standard those services connected with the maintenance of food and other public health standards.