§ 23. Colonel DAYasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department, as representing the First Commissioner of Works, what action has been taken by his Department with regard to the plague of caterpillars damaging the trees in the Royal parks?
§ Captain HACKING (for The FIRST COMMISSIONER of WORKS)During the winter, as far as the funds available permit, cocoons are destroyed. In the spring, such trees as show signs of being attacked, and are accessible, are sprayed Every medium-sized tree in the Green Park and St. James' Park was so sprayed this spring. Four thousand gallons of mixture have been used this year in the central parks.
§ Colonel DAYIn view of the very great annoyance that is caused, can the hon. and gallant Gentleman say whether a greater effort will be made next winter to destroy these caterpillars?
§ Captain HACKINGExperiments are now being carried out.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs not this a very great argument against the destruction of pigeons in London?