§ Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the estimated value of honey and beekeeping equipment, respectively, which has been compulsorily destroyed following outbreaks of foulbrood during the past 12 months.
§ Mr. Anthony StodartI regret that this information is not available.
§ Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied that the treatment of foulbrood is no satisfactory alternative to a policy of destruction; and if the latter policy is no less vigorously enforced in Scotland than it is in England and Wales.
§ Mr. Anthony StodartI am advised that destruction is the most effective way of controlling American foulbrood disease, but that antibiotic treatment may be effective against European foulbrood, which is less widespread and often less damaging. The policy for the control of both these diseases is reviewed from time to time in the light of current scientific knowledge and any other relevant circumstances. Bee health in Scotland is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State.