§ Lord Tebbitasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are satisfied that the proposed reduction of £250,000 to the funding of the National Bee Unit in England will have no adverse effect on the control of diseases and pests such as Varroa, foul brood and the small hive beetle. [HL302]
§ Lord WhittyThe Government acknowledge that beekeepers are concerned about a number of risks that may arise from its proposals to reduce inspections for certain diseases over the coming three years. However, we believe our proposals are reasonable in the light of current disease status and available means of control. We will continue to work closely with the National Bee Unit and beekeeping associations to manage the changes envisaged and the risks which have been identified.