§ Sir J. Duncanasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many Government scientists are engaged 11W in assessing the new pesticides as they appear; and what is the total annual sum spent on this assessment.
§ Mr. Scott-HopkinsNineteen scientists of this Ministry spend about half their time assessing pesticides for safety and efficiency. They are supported by about 20 other officers, most of whom are full time on this work. The total annual cost, including overheads, is about £60,000. Advice is also given by doctors, scientists and administrators from other Government Departments. Scientific work on pesticides is also carried out by this Minstry's advisory services and by research stations and universities grant-aided by the Government.