§ 35. Sir H. BRITTAINasked the Secretary for Scotland whether any, and, if so, what, efforts are being made in Scotland for the encouragement of bird sanctuaries; and whether the proposals by the city of Glasgow to convert a portion of the Ardgoil estate into a wild life reserve is to be devoted solely to birds?
Major ELLIOTT (Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Health, Scotland)A Committee has been set up under the auspices of His Majesty's Office of Works to consider the question of the establishment of bird sanctuaries in the Royal Parks in Scotland, and a bird sanctuary has been created by that Department on the borders of Duddingston Loch in the Royal Park of Holyrood. Bird sanctuaries have also been created by the corporation of Glasgow in the public parks of that City As regards the second part of the question, I am informed that the corporation have decided that the proposal to convert a portion of the Ardgoil estate into a wild life reserve is not practicable, and that there is no prospect of any part of the estate being devoted solely to birds.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman not aware that many interesting forms of wild life are to be found on the banks of the Clyde, and where could they better be preserved than in a sanctuary, and will he ask the authorities to reconsider their decision?
§ Sir WILLIAM DAVISONWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman assure the House that none of these forms of wild life referred to by my hon. Friend are put in sculpture so as to frighten the birds away?
§ Mr. COUPERIs it not a fact that a great deal of ignorance is being displayed by hon. Gentlemen who ask such questions?
§ Mr. MACLEANDoes this indicate another split in the Tory party?
§ Mr. KIRKWOODNot yet, but it will not be long.