§ Mr. Iremongerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he is taking to expedite the findings of his Research Study Group on the use of toxic sprays and seed dressings, which are causing destruction of the wild bird life in the County of Essex.
§ Mr. SoamesThe Research Study Group is primarily concerned with the long-term needs for research into the effects of toxic chemicals used in agriculture. The results of the surveys of wild life casualties carried out this season, including the analytical evidence, are to be reviewed at a meeting with all the interests concerned later this month, following which decisions will be taken on what further action may be needed to cut down the risks to wild life. It is, therefore, not necessary for this purpose to await the Report of the Research Study Group, which is expected later this summer.