§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
What consultations they have had, and with whom, concerning the future of the collection of apple and other fruit varieties at Brogdale Research Station, Kent; and when they expect to make proposals for the continuation and further development of this national asset of over 2,000 varieties.
§ Baroness TrumpingtonMy officials will be meeting interested parties on 12th May to explore future options for the National Fruit Collection, currently located at Brogdale Experimental Horticultural Station. These discussions will include the Royal Horticultural Society, the Royal Botanical Gardens, Wye College (the University of London), the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers and the East Mailing Trust. I can assure my noble friend that the Government intend to safeguard the future of this important collection. Details of the proposed arrangements will be made known as soon as possible.