Written question asked by Graham Allen (Labour) on Monday, 1 February 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 3 February 2010. It was answered by Nick Harvey (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 8 February 2010 on behalf of the House of Commons Commission.

Moths: House of Commons

Question: To ask the hon. Member for North Devon, representing the House of Commons Commission what proposals there are to end the infestation of moths in T block; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Significant numbers of the Common House Moth (Tineola bisselliella) were first reported in the House in early 2008 and preventative treatment has been undertaken since then. In order to minimise the use of pesticides and the consequent risk of exposure to potential toxicants, a process involving moth pheromone has been employed. Although activity in T block remains an issue, monitoring of moth activity shows that moth numbers within the House of Commons estate are generally declining. Alternative methods of eradication, including heat treatment of items and individual spraying of offices to kill larvae, are being considered.

Secondary information