HC Deb 27 February 1973 vol 851 cc333-4W
Mr. Biffen

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the availability of blue dye or fish oil as specified by the European Economic Community regulations for the purpose of denaturing wheat; and what alternative dyes may be used.

Mr. Anthony Stodart

The blue dye specified in the European Economic Community's regulations dealing with the denaturing of wheat is Patent Blue V. It is in short supply just now, but fish oil is readily available. In view of the shortage of Patent Blue V it has been agreed with the EEC Commission that four other dyes may be used in the United Kingdom until 30th April 1973. These dyes are amaranth, orange G, indigo-carmine and green S.