§ 53. Mr. Leslieasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has any recent information as to the extent to which hunts are carrying out the promise to shoot foxes in the coverts in order to keep down the number and so prevent the destruction of poultry and lambs?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithHunts generally are taking the measures recommended by the Masters of Fox Hounds Association to reduce the number of foxes in the breeding coverts. I am continuing to keep the position under close review, however, and any complaints of unsatisfactory conditions in a particular district that may be brought to my notice are being referred to the association for the necessary action to be taken forthwith by the hunt concerned.
§ Mr. LeslieHas the Minister any information of the extent to which this shooting is being carried on, because I 365 have had several letters from different districts pointing out that it is not being done?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithPerhaps the hon. Member will let me know the districts. I know there is a tremendous amount of regulation of foxes going on.
§ Mr. John MorganWill the Minister take into consideration, just as he is instructing war committees to deal with rooks, issuing instructions for these committees to deal with foxes?