§ 21. Mr. G. TERRELLasked the President of the Board of Agriculture why no steps are being taken by organised effort to protect the grain and growing crops of this country from rats, sparrows, rooks, and wood pigeons; and if he is aware that it is at this period of the year that the greatest destruction is caused by these pests?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Sir R. Winfrey)It is the duty of War Agricultural Committees to organise the destruction of agricultural pests wherever they may be rampant, and some committees have already been active in the matter. Further, the Board are considering, in conjunction with the Local Government Board, whether powers ought not to be conferred on local authorities so that they too may take any necessary action within their districts.
§ 22. Mr. G. LAMBERTasked when the proposed Order enabling farmers to kill game destroying crops will be issued; and what is the cause of the delay?
§ Sir R. WINFREYThe Order in Council making the Regulation under the Defence of the Realm Act to enable the Board to deal with this matter was issued on Friday last. The Board are making their Order under it to-day, and I will send a copy to my right hon. Friend.
§ Mr. LAMBERTWill that Order be identical with that suggested by the representative of the Food Controller?
§ Sir R. WINFREYI think not.