HC Deb 22 October 1945 vol 414 cc1683-4
79. Lieut.-Colonel Corbett

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of its deadly effect on all insects, including bees, he proposes to impose any restrictions upon the sale and use of the new insecticide D.D.T.

Mr. T. Williams

There is no direct evidence that gamexane and products containing D.D.T. are likely to have harmful effects in this country when used for agricultural purposes strictly in accordance with the directions of the manufacturers. Further research and experiment is being carried out, however, and if any danger is discovered in the use of these materials the appropriate action will be taken. I understand that the production of D.D.T. has not been decontrolled but that limited supplies have been released for the manufacture of insecticides for general sale. There has been no control over the production of gamexane.