§ Mr. Eldon Griffithsasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) what information he has about the death of oak trees and the rate of planting of oak saplings to replace them;
(2) what evidence he has that further tree diseases are establishing themselves in Great Britain; whether the damage being done by oak wilt represents a potential threat on the scale of Dutch elm disease; what steps he is taking to alert tree owners and timber importers to the problems; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BishopPeriodic dying-back of oak trees has been observed for many years in Britain. This has been due to a number of factors, including some common pests and diseases of oak acting in collaboration with drought and exposure to wind. Figures are not available on the rate of replanting.
Tree diseases will always be present in some degree, but, with the exception of Dutch elm disease, there is no evidence that any are becoming established in this country on any scale. Oak wilt which is present in North America has not reached this country. The provisions of current British legislation and those to be introduced under EEC regulations are designed to maintain protective measures against the import of diseased wood. The Forestry Commission monitors the situation carefully and maintains close liaison both with timber growers and the trade.