HC Deb 02 July 1951 vol 489 c1889
35. Mr. G. Williams

asked the Minister of Supply if he will increase the supply of cartridges in order to facilitate the destruction of vermin.

The Minister of Supply (Mr. G. R. Strauss)

The principal manufacturers of these cartridges increased supplies to the trade from 1st May last. If the hon. Member knows of any area where there are special difficulties, and will let me have details, I will investigate them.

Mr. Williams

Is the Minister aware that most suppliers are allocating cartridges on the basis of the number taken in the previous year and that where people did not have any the year before there is a great deal of unfairness? Is he also aware that a very small extra supply of cartridges would get rid of that unfairness?

Mr. Strauss

We have increased the supplies. If the hon. Member will let me have particulars of any special cases, I will look into them.

Mr. Paget

What guarantee can we have that any such cartridges are used for the destruction of vermin?

Mr. Bossom

Will the Minister look into conditions generally in the rural areas of Kent, where we are experiencing great difficulty in this matter?