§ 17. Mr. McENTEEasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether any action is being taken to exterminate the mongoose in Trinidad in view of the damage caused by this animal?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERThe introduction of the mongoose into Trinidad is prohibited 'by law, and the destruction of the pest is carried out under the direction of the Director of Agriculture. The Government of Trinidad and the Sugar Manufacturers' Association contribute towards the cost of the campaign.
§ Mr. McGOVERNIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this question is agitating the unemployed in this country?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI understand that it is agitating the mongooses much more.
§ Sir NICHOLAS GRATTAN-DOYLEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the mongoose is a perfectly harmless and inoffensive animal and is a. great destroyer of rats?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI under stand that in the colonies concerned the mongoose is regarded as a destroyer of sugar-cane.
§ Mr. CROSSLEYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the mongoose is a Very good snake-killer?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERIt may be very useful in places where danger from snakes is more to be guarded against than danger to sugar-cane.