Written question asked by David Curry (Conservative) on Monday, 3 February 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 13 February 2003. It was answered by Michael Meacher (Labour) on Thursday, 13 February 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, if she will assess the risk of infection by the sudden oak death fungal pathogen phytophthora ramorum in (a) quercus species and (b) fagus species. - Including fact that I have placed copy of the latest revision of the Summary Pest Risk Analysis in Library. (Dep 03/900).

Answer: Mr. Curry: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will assess the risk of infection by the sudden oak death fungal pathogen Phytophthora ramorum in (a) quercus species and (b) fagus species. [95949] Mr. Meacher: The Pest Risk Assessment for Phytophthora ramorum shows that various quercus species, including Quercus rubra (American red oak) and Quercus ilex (Mediterranean holly oak), have been shown to be particularly susceptible to the disease. In initial results of trials under laboratory conditions, Quercus robur (English oak) has shown less susceptibility. Fagus sylvatica (European beech) is also classed as being susceptible to the disease. This research work is continuing. I have placed a copy of the latest revision of the Summary Pest Risk Analysis, which is under continual review and includes the risk assessment, in the Library of the House.

Secondary information