HC Deb 05 May 1913 vol 52 c1698W
Captain CLIVE

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture if he has had any indication of the desire of fruit farmers to have the black currant gall mite scheduled as a notifiable disease in the same way as American gooseberry mildew; and, if so, whether he can see his way to comply?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

It has been suggested to the Board that the black currant mite should be scheduled under the Destructive Insects and Pests Acts, but, having regard to the wide distribution of this pest and the absence of any known remedy which could be effectively applied at a reasonable cost, the Board do not think it advisable at present to adopt the suggestion. Meanwhile scientific investigations and experiments are being carried on, and the Board will consider from time to time the question of taking administrative action.