HC Deb 17 February 1983 vol 37 cc452-3
2. Mr. Alexander

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when it is proposed to issue an updated reprint of "Home Defence and the Farmer"; and whether it will include advice on protection against the effects of chemical weapons.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mrs. Peggy Fenner)

An updated version of this booklet advising farmers on the precautions they should take to protect themselves, their families and their livestock and crops against the effects of nuclear attack is being prepared, but I cannot yet give a date for its publication. It is not proposed to include advice on the effects of chemical weapons.

Mr. Alexander

I thank my hon. Friend for that reply. Is she aware that there is some anxiety within the farming community about the lack of guidance on civil defence matters and that the National Farmers Union has some evidence that the CND is recruiting members of the farming community because of that?

Mrs. Fenner

I know that there has been a steady flow of inquiries to the Department from organisations, including the NFU and the British Veterinary Association. I assure my hon. Friend that, although the last reprint was in 1962, it remained available and viable for some years. An updated version is now being prepared, but I cannot give a date for its completion.

Mr. Deakins

Will the Minister ensure that any advice that is given to the British people on the effects of fall-out from nuclear or chemical weapons on crops and livestock makes it perfectly clear that the few survivors of a nuclear or chemical attack will not be able to rely on the British farming industry for a continued supply of wholesome food?

Mrs. Fenner

That is why the hon. Gentleman will no doubt share my view that we should all work extremely hard for verifiable multilateral disarmament.