HC Deb 22 June 1950 vol 476 c1470
48. Mr. Peter Smithers

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that an aircraft operating from his Department's experimental farm at Martyr Worthy on 24th May sprayed neighbouring private gardens with weedkiller; what was the reason for this; and what steps he is taking to prevent a recurrence of such an event.

Mr. T. Williams

Yes, Sir. The work was carried out by a private firm under contract, and they have accepted responsibility for the accidental spraying of the gardens. My Department does not itself carry out air spraying operations, but I have no doubt that the private firm in question and others engaged in the business always do their utmost to prevent occurrences of this sort.

Mr. Smithers

As my constituents do-not like having their vegetables sprayed with a weed killer from aeroplanes, will the Minister give instructions that these experiments are to be carried out well away from private gardens?

Mr. Williams

I have no power to give instructions to those who carry out the spraying.

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