§ 50. Mr. Finlayasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he is aware of a nuisance caused by black flies breeding in the area of the Metropolitan Water Board's William Girling Reservoir, to the local inhabitants at Waltham Way, Chingford; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MarplesI understand that the Water Board are trying to find a way of getting rid of those flies. They have cut the grass and sprayed insecticide around the reservoir site but these are not complete remedies and investigation is continuing. I am advised that this particular species of fly does not constitute a danger to health.
§ Mr. FinlayIs my hon. Friend aware that this species of fly, whatever he thinks about it, constitutes a considerable nuisance to the unfortunate inhabitants concerned? Is he also aware that the unfortunate inhabitants of Staines have been suffering under similar incursions for some years, and will he do everything he can to develop research to stamp out these kinds of unpleasant pests?
§ Mr. MarplesI am aware that they are annoying because I have been to Staines and have been subjected to the indignity of having these flies around my head, but the official and technical advice which I have received is that they do not bite or sting, nor do they feed or alight on food or refuse; they just hatch in the water, mate, and then they die.