HL Deb 23 May 1977 vol 383 cc1073-4

2.41 p.m.

Lord DE CLIFFORD

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether their attention has been drawn to the proposal by some county councils to use herbicides for the control of grass on road verges and banks in place of cutting them; whether they are aware of the grave damage which will ensue to plant, insect and animal life, particularly in rural areas, as a result of this action; and whether they will take steps to discourage the proposed action.

Baroness BIRK

My Lords, the Government's attention has not been drawn to any such proposals by county councils. To avoid environmental damage, the use of herbicides on motorways and trunk roads is strictly controlled and limited to selective application. On other roads, local highway authorities decide for themselves how they maintain roadside verges. They are under no obligation to adopt the Department's strict policy on the use of herbicides strongly recommended to them.

Lord DE CLIFFORD

My Lords, I thank the noble Baroness for that reply. Is she aware that that proposal was widely published both in national and local newspapers and has caused a great deal of concern? Is she aware that the use of these herbicides particularly in rural areas and in remote districts, is very liable to cause considerable damage to the very rare plant life, animal life and insect life, and also considerably spoils the enjoyment of the areas for visitors?

Baroness BIRK

Yes, my Lords. It is for this reason that the Department sent out a circular to local highway authorities pointing out that the use of herbicides should be based on whether the noxious weeds affect the agriculture which is aligned to them, or on the grounds of road safety where it is necessary to use herbicides. Otherwise I would only suggest to the noble Lord that if he has any particular council in mind, he should himself get in touch with them.

Viscount MOUNTGARRET

My Lords, could the noble Baroness answer whether or not the county councils could be asked to refrain from cutting grass verges until after the end of June? Is the noble Baroness aware that a good deal of damage is done to birds that do not hatch out until that date?

Baroness BIRK

My Lords, we really have to leave it to the local authorities to decide for themselves. As I said before, it depends on the need for it. At the moment, with the cut in expenditure and manpower, I should not think that there is in any event a great rush to get round to cutting the grass.