To ask the Scottish Executive what research it has conducted into the control of the varroa mite.

While the Scottish Government has not, as yet, funded any research into the control of the varroa mite, the UK Government’s investment in research on varroa exceeds £2.2 million over the past 12 years.

There is also active research in many countries, information about which is shared internationally, an example of which can be accessed at:

http://www.ento.psu.edu/honeybeeresearch.Html.

The UK Animal Health and Welfare funders forum, which includes government research councils and the Wellcome Trust, is aware of the effects of varroa infestation. The Scottish Government is engaging with this group.

John Scott (Ayr) (Con): To ask the Scottish Executive whether the reduction in the honeybee population as a result of the spread of the varroa mite poses a threat to the pollination of agricultural crops.

The Scottish Government has received no reports or suggestions to date of any reduction in crop production due to any decline in the honeybee population in Scotland.

John Scott (Ayr) (Con): To ask the Scottish Executive whether a risk assessment has been carried out on the implications of the spread of the varroa mite on pollination levels.

The Scottish Government has not received and is not aware of any reports or suggestions of any reduction in crop production due to declining honeybee populations as a result of varroa infestation. It has, therefore, not been considered necessary to carry out a risk assessment on the implications of the spread of varroa mite on pollination levels.