§ 25. Mr. Dribergasked the Minister of Technology what progress is being made in combating the depredations of the teredo and the gribble; and whether, among other factors tending to encourage these pests, those engaged in this research test regularly the temperature of estuary waters that may be warmed gradually by the discharge of hot effluents from nuclear power stations.
§ Mr. CousinsResearch to combat these pests has been undertaken for some years by the Timber Research and Development Association, which is grant-aided by my Ministry. Research so far has identified the more resistant types of timber and the best protective compositions.
§ Mr. DribergWill my right hon. Friend see that this matter is watched year after year, since clearly the development of these boring pests is a matter of very great importance to the fishing industry and to those engaged in sailing, and, of course, they thrive in warm water? Will my right hon. Friend therefore watch the situation?
§ Mr. CousinsCertainly, I shall be prepared to do this. I am getting quite used to the activities of boring pests.
§ Mr. HamlingAre these pests members of the Tory Party?
§ Mr. CousinsThey are, apparently, frequently found in warm water.
§ Sir R. ThompsonFor greater accuracy, will the Minister tell us what a gribble is?
§ Mr. CousinsIn the light of the Question, I should have thought that that would have been understood. They are marine wood-boring pests.