HC Deb 08 November 1989 vol 159 c660W
Mr. Home Robertson

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what information he has about the impact of the cultivation of oil seed rape on human health or allergies; and if his Department will sponsor any research on this subject.

Mr. Michael Forsyth

Although oil seed rape pollens have been identified as a cause of allergic reactions in some individuals there are at present no medical grounds for distinguishing their effects from those of the pollens of other plants and trees. A range of medicines is available for the treatment of such allergic conditions.

The Scottish Office will give favourable consideration to any soundly based relevant research proposal.