§ 63. Sir H. Butcherasked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) whether, having regard to the appearance of what seems to be a new disease affecting principally potatoes of the variety Redskin, he will take steps to ensure that during the coming season all growers in Scotland shall notify the planting of all potatoes of this variety to his Department with a view to inspection either before planting or before removal of the crop;
(2) whether, having regard to the outbreak of a disease similar to the North American disease spindle tuber, he will give an assurance that no potatoes infected or thought to be affected with this disease will be planted in the present season.
§ Mr. NobleFor practical reason, including particularly the nature of the disease itself, it is not possible to give a comprehensive assurance of the kind which my hon. Friend seeks. I have placed restrictions on the movement of existing stocks of certified Scottish seed of this variety and have made arrangements to ensure that these will be inspected before any are released for planting. Further measures are under consideration.