asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has any evidence that plant diseases are brought into this country by imported bulbs; and what steps are taken to ensure that all imported bulbs are free from disease?

Mr. GUINNESS:

I am aware that bulb diseases and pests have been brought into this country on imported bulbs, but since the coming into operation of the Destructive Insects and Pasts Order of 1922, which requires all imported bulbs to be accompanied by a certificate of health issued by a duly authorised official of the country of origin, there has been an appreciable improvement in the standard of health of imported bulbs.

Where is the inspection made?

Mr. GUINNESS:

We inspect them in this country.

Have steps been taken in recent months in regard to the inspection of bulbs to make quite sure that all possible precautions are observed in order to free bulbs in this country from infection by imported bulbs?

Mr. GUINNESS:

We are taking all the steps that we can to ensure that only healthy bulbs are brought in. I would remind my hon. Friend that there is no question of bringing in fresh disease. If these diseases come in, they are of the same kind as those which are already endemic in this country.