HL Deb 05 July 1976 vol 372 cc1133-4WA
Lord STANLEY of ALDERLEY

asked Her Majesty's Government :

Whether they will give a firm recommendation as to what action should be taken, to prevent damage to the cereal crop, particularly wheat, by the current aphid infestation, that is consistent with the desire to maintain wild life especially insects such as ladybirds and bees.

Lord STRABOLGI

Farmers have already been advised by the Agricultural Development and Advisory Service of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food on infestation levels which justify treatment in various circumstances. This will reduce unnecessary spraying and the consequent risk to beneficial insects and other wild life. It is also normal practice for ADAS to advise farmers of precautions necessary to minimise these risks. Nevertheless where spraying is undertaken some damage to bees flying in the track of the spray and to some other types of wildlife may arise. This damage is unlikely however to have a serious or prolonged impact on beneficial insects and wildlife in general.