HC Deb 27 February 1934 vol 286 cc919-20
22. Mr. ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that the Colorado beetle pest is gradually spreading north; and what is the latest information received by his Department on this question?

Major GEORGE, DAVIES (Lord of the Treasury)

I have been asked to reply. The Colorado beetle has been spreading northwards in France for some years past, but no official details of its advance during 1933 have come to my right hon. Friend's notice. There is no foundation whatever for any suggestion that the beetle is spreading northward in this country, nor any evidence of its appearance here except in the Tilbury district.