§ Lord O'HAGANasked Her Majesty's Government:
What steps they have taken to prevent the importation of oak wilt into the United Kingdom; when they expect the European Economic Community to take action; and whether they will make a Statement.
§ Lord STRABOLGIThe Importation of Wood and Bark (Prohibition) (Great Britain) Order 1977 strengthened earlier legislation controlling the landing of oak and sweet chestnut wood in the round from North America, where oak wilt is found. The Importation of Forest Trees (Prohibition) (Great Britain) Order 1965 also prohibits the import of oak and sweet chestnut plants.
These two orders largely reflect the provisions of the EEC Plant Health Directive which we are due to implement by 1st September this year. The EEC Plant Health Working Group is currently discussing a possible further strengthening of the controls against oak wilt in the Directive to cover square-edged sawn wood of oak and sweet chestnut as well as wood in the round. We would of course put any such extension into effect in this country. Her Majesty's Government take the potential threat of oak wilt very seriously and have the situation under continuing review.
House adjourned at four minutes before eight o'clock.