HC Deb 02 March 1931 vol 249 cc19-20
37. Mr. RAMSBOTHAM

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the growing danger from grey squirrels, as set out in the literature issued by his Department, he will suggest to the different local authorities the desirability of offering a reward for each grey squirrel killed in its area?

The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Dr. Addison)

I understand from my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health that local authorities have no power to offer rewards such as the hon. Member suggests. I am, moreover, advised that the experience of this and other countries in connection with other pests indicates that such a method of securing the destruction of grey squirrels would probably prove unsatisfactory, and would be liable to abuse.