HC Deb 14 July 1930 vol 241 c919
41. Sir ROBERT HAMILTON

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether further research is being made by his Department into the question of the destruction of fish by the common seal?

Dr. ADDISON

The Ministry's investigations as to the food of the common seal which have been carried out during the last five years have served their purpose and have now been discontinued. The Ministry continues to receive all available information on the subject, but, up to the present, no evidence has been produced which conflicts with that of its own investigations.

Sir R. HAMILTON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in Iceland, which largely depends on its fisheries, the people are satisfied that the common seal does a great deal of damage, and will he be good enough to apply to our Consul-General there for a report?

Dr. ADDISON

Certainly I will inquire.

Mr. MARJORIBANKS

Has not the food of the Privy Seal shown a marked improvement lately?