§ 11. Mr. C. BATHURSTasked if, according to information received by the Board, Isle of Wight bee disease has been more prevalent during the past twelve months than during the previous twelve months; and whether the bee population has been materially reduced in consequence of the disease?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANThe disease in question not being compulsorily notifiable, the Board have no means of ascertaining the extent of its prevalence during different periods for the purpose of comparison, but there can be no doubt that the number of bees in the country has been much reduced by the disease in recent years.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTDoes the right Lon. Gentleman mean by that reply to suggest that the disease has increased during the last few years?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANSo far as my information goes I think that I should be entitled to express the opinion that it has, but I have no data.
§ Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAYWill the right hon. Gentleman endeavour to get data, on this very important subject?