Storm whipped up over ice cream bell probe

Labour blasted the Government survey as a waste of time and money when Britain is battling massive debt.

But officials insisted it was part of a drive to CUT pointless red tape.

The Department of Food and Rural Affairs has published a 17,000-word consultation document asking Brits if they think noise restrictions on ice cream bells should be scrapped.

It says the the exercise will appeal to "members of the public with an interest in chimes".

Among organisations also asked for their views are the Ice Cream Alliance and the British Sandwich Association.

But Simon Danczuk, Labour MP for Rochdale, blasted: "There are hundreds and thousands of things the Government should be focusing on ahead of a consultation on ice cream van chimes.

"If there is a vote, will Tories impose a three-line Mr Whippy?"

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