I move:—
That charges may be imposed by any regulations made in relation to food, drink or medical preparations by the Minister for Local Government and Public Health under statutory authority.
Public Health Bill, 1945. - Financial Motion.
Is the motion agreed to?
Oh no, we want some information about it.
What charges does the Parliamentary Secretary propose to impose, and for what purposes?
For the purposes set out in the Bill. Section 75 authorises charges for the purposes of the regulations, or for examinations, certifications, or other services performed in relation to the control of food. Section 90 (3) (g) authorises the imposition of charges in respect of the grant or retention of licences. It relates to advertisements connected with proprietary medicines.
The question of licences, I take it, for sale under this section, arises only in connection with proprietary medicines? Does the question of licences for any other purpose arise?
I do not think so.
I want it to be clear that we are not giving power under this section to the Parliamentary Secretary to oblige certain traders to operate under licence.
No—only in respect of proprietary medicines.
It applies solely to proprietary medicines?
Quite so.
In view of the fact that this amounts to a certain type of taxation, will the Parliamentary Secretary give the House any idea as to the size of the charges he is likely to contemplate under Section 75 and Section 90?
I cannot give any information until consultation will take place with the interests concerned. Under Section 90 (3) (g), for example, the charges will be related, to some extent at any rate, to the scope of advertisements. A very big firm might indulge in wide and expensive advertising and the charge would be higher in that case than in the case of smaller firms with a limited output.
All these charges will be imposed by regulations which can be reviewed by the House?
Yes.
Question put and agreed to.
Motion reported and agreed to.