HC Deb 15 December 1971 vol 828 cc126-7W
Mr. Lomas

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will introduce legislation amending the Slaughter of Poultry Act, 1967, to require the registration of premises where poultry is slaughtered by methods other than mechanical stunning.

Mr. Anthony Stodart

No. The Act empowers officers appointed by the local authority to enter any premises in its area where poultry is slaughtered, in order to check that the Act and the provisions as to method of slaughter are being observed. This power is not restricted to premises where a stunning instrument is in use. A wider registration requirement is not considered necessary.

Mr. Lomas

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will introduce legislation requiring all classes of poultry slaughterhouses to be registered with local authorities.

Mr. Alison

I have been asked to reply.

No. Powers already exist under the Food and Drugs Act, 1955, to make an Order requiring the registration of such premises but it has not been found necessary to use these powers in view of the control exercisable under the Food Hygiene Regulations.