§ Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what research is being undertaken to counter Dutch Elm Disease; what is the estimated cost of such research; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Anthony StodartThere has been a good deal of previous research on Dutch Elm disease both in this country and abroad, but, in view of the recent severe outbreak in Southern England, the Forestry Commission are undertaking a special research project. This will include investigations on possible methods of chemical control, and the selection of resistant trees. The estimated cost of this research in the financial year 1971–72 will be about £3,300.
Meanwhile the Commission has given wide publicity to the measures they can at present recommend for controlling the disease.