§ Mr. GILBERTasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food if he can now make any statement as to the quantity of Irish cattle slaughtered at Birkenhead recently which on arrival in London was condemned for tuberculosis; what action has been taken to prevent this diseased meat from reaching meat markets in the future; and what becomes of the offal of such slaughtered cattle, is it condemned in Birkenhead or is it sent to any markets for sale?
§ Mr. HAYES FISHERI have been asked to answer this question. During the month of February, of the meat of Irish cattle slaughtered at Birkenhead and arriving at Smithfield Market, thirty-five sides and sixteen quarters were condemned on account of tuberculosis The assistant meat inspector at Birkenhead has been called up for military service, and in the recent pressure of work some diseased carcases and offal which would ordinarily have been condemned at the place of slaughter have, unfortunately, escaped detection there and have been sent else where for sale. Steps have now been taken to provide a qualified assistant to the meat inspector at Birkenhead.