§ Dr. Cunninghamasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will add Bombus Terrestis, Bombus Lapidavius and Apius Mellifera to the list of endangered species; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Ridley[pursuant to his reply, 17 July 1987]: No. Bombus Terrestis, Bombus Lapitarius and Apis Mellifera are common bee species and are not threatened with extinction. Accordingly, the Nature Conservancy Council has not recommended further protection for these species under the quinquennial review of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The Government are, however, well aware of the beneficial contribution that bees can make to the environment.