§ 14. Mr. GILBERTasked the Secretary of State for India whether his attention has been called to the alleged cruelties practised in India in connection with the obtaining of the plumage of certain birds; whether the Government of India has ever considered or promoted legislation on the subject; and, if not, will he undertake to bring the matter before them in order that they may decide if any restrictions are required on the trades concerned?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe export of the skins and feathers of wild birds from India has been prohibited since 1902, under the Sea Customs Act. As the internal trade in birds' feathers in India is insignificant and as the export prohibition, though sometimes evaded is, I believe, fairly effective, it seems doubtful whether the cruelties to which my hon. Friend refers are practised to any considerable extent. My information, however, is incomplete, and I will forward a copy of this question and of my reply to the Government of India for their consideration.