§ Sir G. WHELERasked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that Continental cherries are being sold in London which are largely infested with maggots; and what inspection is made of soft fruit coming into the London markets from abroad?
Mr. WOODMy attention has been drawn to the fact mentioned, and I am considering what steps can be taken to obviate the risk of introducing new pests into English orchards by this means. Representations have already been made to the French Government on the subject. With regard to the last part, it has not been necessary hitherto to require the inspection of imported consignments of soft fruit other than gooseberries by officers of the Ministry under the Destructive Insects and Pests Acts, but I am having the position carefully examined.