36. MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEasked the Secretary for Scotland if Scottish bee-keepers are manifesting concern at the delay in passing a measure dealing with bee disease; whether the Highlands of Scotland are quickly being denuded of bees; and when does he propose to deal with the matter?
Mr. McKINNON WOODNo recent representations on the subject have reached me, but I understand that Scottish beekeepers are anxious to see powers obtained for dealing with bee disease. No evidence has been brought before me to show that the Highlands are being denuded of bees. As regards the last part of the question, I am in communication with the President of the Board of Agriculture.
MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEMay I really ask the right hon. Gentleman if he does not know there has been a tremendous cry in Scotland about this matter for years, that the industry in parts has been nearly ruined, and that we have had the matter brought up here over and over again; and may I also ask him if he does not know this, what is the good of his being Secretary for Scotland?
Mr. McKINNON WOODI quite admit, and I said Scottish bee-keepers are anxious to see powers obtained for dealing with bee disease, but no recent representations have been made to me on the subject.
§ Mr. HOGGEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that Scotland is very rapidly being denuded of people?