HC Deb 04 June 1951 vol 488 c686
51. Mr. Thomas Reid

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what British funds have been promised, in response to the request from the Government of Iran, to subscribe some of the funds needed to prevent locust attacks on Persia and other Middle East countries.

Mr. Younger

In April, the Persian Government made a general appeal to His Majesty's Government and the United States Government for aid in meeting the locust threat. In consultation with His Majesty's Government, the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company immediately made available to the Persian Government spraying aircraft, insecticide, expert personnel and service, to a total cost of about £75,000. A senior entomologist with long experience of Persian conditions was also released by Messrs. Plant Protection Ltd. to take charge of the campaign. His Majesty's Government are also playing a leading part in meeting the locust threat in other Middle East countries through the operations of the British Desert Locust Control Organisation.

Mr. Reid

Do His Majesty's Government contribute to the funds of this campaign?

Mr. Younger

I should want notice of that question. This assistance was supplied by the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company.