HC Deb 04 February 1913 vol 47 cc1981-2
42. Mr. C. BATHURST

asked whether exceptionally large flocks of wood pigeons, evidently of foreign origin, have lately made their appearance in the South and West of England; and whether the Board can take any steps to bring about organised and simultaneous efforts for their destruction over large areas prior to their committing depredations upon clover, rape, and other like crops, such as occurred in the spring of 1911?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Although no complaints have yet been made to the Board this year, I am aware that great numbers of wood pigeons are coming into certain parts of the country, and I propose to issue a notice at once, as in March, 1911, calling the attention of farmers to the fact and suggesting that combined efforts should be made to reduce their numbers.

Colonel LOCKWOOD

Do they come under the Aliens Act?

Mr. C. BATHURST

Will the right hon. Gentleman issue that document as soon as possible, as it was rather late in 1911?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Oh, yes; I will get it out at once.

Mr. LEE

Will the right hon. Gentleman give us any idea where the pigeons come from?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

No; we do not do that.