HC Deb 19 November 1959 vol 613 c1332
33. Mr. Eden

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many arsenical weed-killers are at present banned under his regulations.

Mr. Godber

My right hon. Friend has no statutory powers to ban the agricultural use of such substances, but he is carefully considering the position of arsenite sprays under the voluntary notification scheme operated in conjunction with the agricultural chemical industry for securing the safe use of toxic chemicals.

Mr. Eden

Has my hon. Friend noted the experience of the widespread use of these sprays in the United States? Will he consider making some kind of regulation as to the use of these sprays, because they seem to be very dangerous indeed—for example, if they are sprayed from low-flying aircraft?

Mr. Godber

Yes, I would not minimise the dangers at all. My right hon. Friend said in reply to a Question last week that he hoped to make a statement soon on this matter. I should be grateful if my hon. Friend would leave the matter there for the moment.

Mr. H. Hynd

Does the inquiry which is taking place include the possible pollution of reservoirs as a result of the use use of these sprays?

Mr. Godber

Yes, that has been taken account of.