Written question asked by David Lidington (Conservative) on Monday, 15 September 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 October 2003. It was answered by Baroness Beckett (Labour) on Monday, 6 October 2003 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, how many samples have been tested for phytophthora ramorum during 2003; what proportion of samples have proven positive; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Lidington: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many samples have been tested for Phytophthora ramorum during 2003; what proportion of samples have proven positive; and if she will make a statement. [130856] Margaret Beckett: Since 1 January 2003, 3883 individual laboratory tests have been carried out on samples of plant material suspected of being infected with Phytophthora ramorum fungus in the United Kingdom. 15.9 per cent. of these samples were confirmed as being infected with this pathogen. Defra and the devolved authorities continue to survey for the disease and to take eradication action against any findings.

Secondary information