HC Deb 01 December 1986 vol 106 cc516-7W
Mr. Andrew F. Bennett

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what discussions his Department has had with Stockport metropolitan borough council over the last five years concerning the presence of cockroaches in flats at Lancashire Hill; and what reasons have been given to his Department by the council as to why eradication has not yet been achieved.

Mr. Tracey

The Department has not had discussions with Stockport metropolitan borough council about cockroach infestation in the Lancashire Hill flats.

Mr. Andrew F. Bennett

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many local authorities have consulted his Department about problems of cockroach infestation; in how many cases eradication programmes have been successful; and which insecticides have been used.

Mr. Tracey

Some local authorities have drawn the Department's attention to the problem of cockroach infestation. However, responsibility for disinfestation rests entirely with the authority.

Mr. Andrew F. Bennett

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps have been taken to ensure the adequacy of the human health and safety aspects of the methods of treating cockroach infestations being recommended by his Department to local authorities.

Mr. Tracey

The Department has not issued guidance to local authorities on the treatment of cockroach infestations. It is entirely a matter for each local authority to satisfy itself as to the safety of the products and methods used.