§ 20. Captain McEwenasked the Secretary of State for Air why it is that application should have been made to the United States of America for 3,000 homing pigeons for use during the war when the pigeon fanciers at home are told that there is not enough feeding-stuff in the country to maintain their own birds?
Captain BalfourNo application has been made to the United States for 982 homing pigeons for use during the war. A generous offer was made by pigeon fanciers in that country to provide 3,000 pigeons for the use of the Army Pigeon Service. After careful consideration it was decided not to import any pigeons into the United Kingdom but to accept a small number of young birds for use overseas.
§ Captain McEwenIs there food in this country for these birds?
Captain BalfourWe are not importing any birds into this country. As I have already said, we have decided not to import any pigeons from the United States, but to accept a small number of young birds for use overseas.
§ Mr. T. SmithIs it not a fact that there are plenty of young birds in this country which could be trained for this purpose?
Captain BalfourI am glad to know that, but I presume that in the case of these young birds from the United States they are specially suitable for use in certain climates overseas.