HC Deb 19 October 1949 vol 468 cc545-6
35 and 36. Sir Wavell Wakefield

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies (1) what steps are being taken in Malaya and the Pacific area to combat the destructive effects of the giant snail, Achatina Fulica, and similar species; and what are the existing arrangements with the Governments of Australia and New Zealand for joint action;

(2) what steps are being taken to stop the spread of the giant snail, Achatina Fulica, Achatina Achabine and similar species, to those parts of the Colonial Empire where the species are unknown, in view of the great destruction caused by them; and what co-operation is taking place with the Dominions of Australia and New Zealand and the United States of America in this connection.

Mr. Creech Jones

As my statement is necessarily of some length, I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the statement:

My information is that the giant snail (Achatina Fulica) and similar species are not yet a serious menace in any part of the Colonial Empire, except Hong Kong, where their numbers increased considerably during the Japanese occupation, but are now diminishing. Control by hand collection or poison bait containing "meta" aldehyde is practised.

In the Federation of Malaya and Singapore the giant snail has been a minor pest for many years. In the Federation of Malaya its numbers in any area fluctuate, and at times it may constitute an economic threat. Control by hand collection or poison-baiting has proved effective in the past, and no concerted campaign has proved necessary or is contemplated. In Sarawak the import and export of the giant snail has been prohibited since 1931. All snails found in the colony are destroyed. Poison bait containing "meta" aldehyde has proved effective as a control. The giant snail has not yet appeared in Fiji or any of the territories of the Western Pacific High Commission. The authorities are on the watch and all necessary quarantine measures are taken.

My Department is in touch with the British Museum (Natural History) regarding the advice which should be given to Colonial Governments generally to assist them in controlling and preventing the further spread of this pest. The Museum authorities are preparing a circular, which will be brought to the notice of all Governments likely to be concerned. Co-operation with the United States of America, Australia and New Zealand has not hitherto proved necessary, but contact will be established with these Governments should the necessity arise.