HC Deb 04 December 1958 vol 596 cc1344-5
18. Mr. Champion

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied that no apples of the home grown crop reach the public contaminated as a result of the use of lead-arsenate sprays; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Hare

Yes, Sir. These sprays have been used here for many years and I have no evidence of any contamination of harvested fruit. Precautions for their safe use have been made known and I have no reason to think that growers do not observe them.

Mr. Champion

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this Question arose because many imported apples which had been heavily contaminated with these sprays had been sold? Will he use his powers to the full to ensure that that never happens with our home-grown crop?

Mr. Hare

I will certainly bear in mind what the hon. Gentleman says.

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