§ 14. Sir HARRY BRITTAINasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that, for the purpose of saving the lives of migratory birds, a certain number of lighthouses have been provided with perches fixed under the lanterns on which the birds can rest; in how many cases this has been done; and whether the experiment has proved successful?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-L1STERI am informed by Trinity House that, by arrangement with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, specially designed perches have been attached to the towers of the lighthouses at Spurn Point, St. Catherine's, Caskets, South Bishop and Bardsey, and that, from the reports received as to the large number of birds which alight on these perches during the migrating season, there is reason to believe that they have effected their purpose of saving the lives of a number of birds. These perches have been established and are maintained at the expense of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINWill the right hon. Gentleman continue with the good work until every lighthouse is so provided?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI am afraid that it does not rest with me to give orders with respect to the lighthouses. That rests with Trinity House. Trinity House are fitting them up. I am informed that Scotland, I regret to say, is more sceptical on this subject.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINIf the right hon. Gentleman cannot give orders, will he encourage them?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI think the hon. Member's question and the answer given to it may have the desired effect.