THE MEAT INDUSTRY.

Taranaki Daily News, 29 November 1920, Page 6

THE MEAT INDUSTRY.

■* ■ —■■..; : -t I BAD CONDITIONS ALLEGED. THE MINISTER'S REPLY. (From Our Own Correspondent.) Wellington, Nov. 25. Allegation that frozen meat was being shipped from New Zealand in bad condition was made during the recent session of Parliament by Mr. H. K. Holland, M.P., who suggested that the cargoes of the steamers Waimana and Wiltshire should be examined, and that the Government should appoint a commission to hold an open inquiry into the conditions surrounding the slaughtering! freezing, canning, local distribution and export of New Zealand meat. The Minister v for Agriculture (Mr, Nos worthy) has replied that the High Commissioner has been asked to have the Waimana-'s meat inspected when the ship reaches England. The meat was found to be in good condition at this end, and clean bills of lading were given throughout. The flovcrnment Inspector in Wellington has reported that he was on the Wiltshire .several times, and examined the meat that was going aboard, It was all in good order, well frozen and the bags clean. The ship's staff were well satisfied.

"There is no intention of appointing such a commission," adds the Minister. "The meat is slaughtered, dressed and handled under exceedingly good conditions. The system of inspection in meat, export, slaughter houses, and abattoirs is thorough, and certainly as rigid as that of any other country, more so than most, and every precaution is taken to safeguard the health of consumers, whether of fresh, frozen or preserved meats. Two investigations have been made here within the last six months, the first by an inspecting officer from the Smithfield market into the whole system of inspection and of handling of meat, and the second by two gentlemen appointed by the Imperial Government, who inquired particularly into the conditions under which the meat was stored in the freezing chambers. The reports in each case have been made in London, but may be expected to reach New Zealand shortly The suggestions underlying the question convey a grave and altogether unwarranted aspersion upon the integrity and efficiency of the Government officers responsible for the duty of meat-inspection."