HC Deb 27 July 1978 vol 954 cc863-4W
Mr. Molloy

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is aware that British food manufacturers whose products are banned from other countries because of their more stringent public health regulations on poisons are selling their products freely in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Strang

I am aware that our food laws differ in some respects from those of other countries, but I do not accept that this means their consumers are better protected than ours. British food manufacturers are very conscious of their obligation to produce and sell safe and wholesome food. All food sold here must comply with the provisions of our Food and Drugs Acts and the regulations made under them. It is an offence under our law to sell food that is injurious to health or is unfit to eat. Local food and drugs authorities have the duty to enforce the law and have ample powers to ensure that it is obeyed.