40. Mr. CHANCELLORasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture if his Department has recommended the formation of children's clubs for the destruction of sparrows; if so, whether they consider that the difference between the destruction of crops by sparrows and by the insects on which they feed is commensurate with the demoralisation which the habit and practice of cruelty which the killing of birds will develop and strengthen; and whether this recommendation will be withdrawn?
§ Sir R. WINFREYThe loss of food owing to the depredations of sparrows is so serious that the Board have urged the formation of sparrow clubs throughout the country; but they have advised that school children should not be employed on the destruction of sparrows, except under the supervision of their school teachers. The Board see no reason to fear that demoralisation to any children working under their teachers will ensue in helping to rid the country of the large excess of sparrows.
§ Sir TUDOR WALTERSIs the answer to this question intended to be a joke or is it serious?
§ Sir R. WINFREYI am quite serious.
§ Sir H. CRAIKIs this one of the subjects recognised by the Code?
Mr. CHANCELLORDoes the hon. Gentleman contend there will be any great advantage gained by the destruction of sparrows, in view of the multiplication of insects which will feed on the same crops?
§ Sir R. WINFREYI think scientific opinion really shows that sparrows do more harm than good.