HL Deb 28 February 1983 vol 439 c1026WA
Lord Hale

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How and why Oldham health food shops have been found containing the toxic belladonna, and what steps have been taken and with what result.

Lord Trefgarne

Following reported cases of illness arising from the contamination by belladonna of a batch of imported comfrey herb leaves distributed by Cotswold Health Products Limited the Department of Health and Social Security issued a public warning. Medical practitioners were informed and local authorities invited to take suitable measures to secure the removal of the brand in question from shops and the home. I am not aware of any particular problem in Oldham. Investigations into the source of contamination are continuing.