HC Deb 31 July 1972 vol 842 cc13-4
15. Mr. Barry Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Wales to what extent aerial crop spraying is used in East Flintshire.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

So far as I can ascertain, there has been only one case of aerial crop spraying on 60 acres of potatoes in the area this year. This took place at Sealand on 21st July.

Mr. Jones

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that since the autumn of 1971 Mr. D. R. Gill, of Bridge Farm, Sealand, has lost a considerable number of cattle probably because they ate hay which had been poisoned by aerial crop spraying? Is the Minister further aware that in July, 1970, a number of my constituents were poisoned by aerial crop spraying to such an extent that they are still receiving medical advice? Will he please take decisive action in order that my constituents, their cattle and crops are no longer put at risk by this awful poison from the skies?

Mr. Gibson-Watt

The Ministry of Agriculture has looked very carefully into the cases which the hon. Gentleman has raised. I was not aware of the effect of human ill health. Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will write to me about it. I was aware of the donkeys which were affected, and it was discovered that they did not suffer permanent damage to health.

Mr. Jones

On a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I wish to give notice that I shall seek to raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.