§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on his actions to alleviate bee diseases.
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§ Mr. Curry[holding answer 19 February 1993]: Since my reply to the Member for Linlithgow on 5 November at columns 405–06, a further 33 cases of varroasis have been confirmed, all within the infected area, making a total of 318. I have arranged for letters to be sent to every beekeeper known to the Department to ensure that each is aware of the varroa controls and the advice that is available. I have also arranged for a further varroa search to take place in the spring. Until then existing controls will be maintained. Further action will depend on the results of the search. We shall also continue to take the necessary action to tackle other bee diseases including American foul brood and European foul brood.