§ Mr. E. Granvilleasked the Minister of Food the number of persons now engaged on rat destruction under the combined Ministries; the cost to the country; and if their services arc satisfactory.
§ Sir B. Smith:I can only answer for the activities of my own Department. The number of staff of my Department at headquarters and in the provinces employed on the destruction of rats and mice is 298, and the estimated annual cost of salaries and wages is £108,800. I am satisfied hat this organisation is doing excellent work in protecting foodstuffs from the ravages of these pests.