§ Colonel Carverasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware of the prevalence of rose bay willow herb this season: whether he will consider certifying this as a noxious weed: and what steps he is prepared to recommend to eradicate the plant?
Mr. HudsonI am advised that the rose bay willow herb is more in evidence this year, probably because of increased timber felling. It is often one of the first weeds to occupy the ground after trees have been cut down, particularly in places where forest waste has been burnt. Since it spreads by means of seeds or suckers and runners it should be cut over as fast as it grows. I have no power to certify this weed as a noxious weed but County War Agricultural Executive Committees have power, under Defence Regulations, to give directions for its destruction where it is injurious to food production.