§ 94. Mr. P. Wellsasked the Minister of Materials whether he will take steps to augment the supply of bird-scaring ropes to farmers in Kent whose winter-sown crops are being raided by rooks and gulls.
§ Sir A. SalterThe seasonal rush of orders for these ropes has coincided this year with very heavy demands, including important export orders for fireworks for Coronation celebrations, and also with the recent flooding in Kent of one of the principal manufacturers of bird-scaring ropes. I am, however, informed that this firm expects to resume limited production shortly, and assurances have been given that they and the other manufacturers concerned will do everything possible to expedite the delivery of bird-scaring ropes. If in the meantime the hon. Member will let me have particulars of any cases of special difficulty I will certainly see what can be done to help.