§ Mr. T. Johnston(by Private Notice) asked the Secretary of State for Scotland, whether he is aware that a destructive plague of caterpillars has swept from the Ochil Hills, in Perthshire, to the Campsie Hills, in Stirlingshire, and that some 10,000 acres of sheep pasturage have already been affected; whether outbreaks have been reported from other parts of Scotland: and whether he can make any statement as to the origins and causes of the plague and as to the steps which may be usefully taken by agriculturists and the Department of Agriculture for Scotland for the speedy arrestment of the plague.
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Elliot)I am aware that extensive damage has been done during recent weeks by caterpillars of the Antler Moth in the areas referred to in the Question and in other upland areas in South and Mid Scotland. The position has been investigated by the authorities of the Edinburgh and East of Scotland College of Agriculture, and it is stated that the rare periodic outbreaks of this pest have always followed upon a season in which 2322 much snow has lain on the hills until late spring or early summer protecting the young caterpillars. I understand that control by artificial methods at this juncture is regarded as out of the question. It appears that in the opinion of expert entomologists the outbreak is past its zenith, that the pest is not likely to spread to the low ground, and that the damage done is not permanent, and may very quickly be repaired by growth of new grass. The Department are in communication with the College as to whether any further action is requred by way of advice to farmers on the subject.
§ Mr. JohnstonCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether this pest is also attacking the fronds of the bracken, and whether investigations are being made as to whether some permanent advantage might not be secured in that direction?
§ Mr. ElliotMy information is that it is rather an underground pest than a leaf pest; that it attacks the roots. I will call for a report as to whether it is attacking bracken.
§ Mr. MacquistenDoes the right hon. Gentleman not think that this pest, which is ruining small agriculturists, is completing the work which has been done in this part of the country by the Milk Board?
§ Mr. ElliotI do not think the Milk Board is concerned with these particular areas.