§ Mr. CHARLES BATHURSTasked whether the Board of Agriculture were carrying out any systematic investigation as to the food of different species of birds, other than the very limited investigation of Mr. Robert Newstead, to which reference was made in a supplement to the Journal of the Board of December, 1908, in order to ascertain definitely which British birds are harmful on the farm and in the garden and which are beneficial?
§ Sir E. STRACHEYThe British Association for the Advancement of Science appointed a committee in 1908 to investigate the feeding habits of British birds. The Board are represented on the committee, and are giving a contribution towards the expenses.
§ Mr. CHARLES BATHURSTWill not the Board consider it worth its while to pursue its own separate investigations in so important a matter, in the interests of those who cultivate the soil?
§ Sir E. STRACHEYWhat is being done at present is sufficient. If the Board were not satisfied of that they would not have made a contribution.