§ 11. Mr. Mathersasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether it is the practice of Scottish farmers and flockmasters to regard deer as vermin, destructive of crops and productive of disease amongst sheep; what steps are now being taken to deal with this menace; whether instructions have been issued to County Agricultural Executive Committees; and who is responsible for seeing that these instructions are complied with?
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Westwood)Yes, Sir. Deer on agricultural land are regarded as harmful to crops and pasture. As explained to my hon. Friend in reply to his Question of 27th May, occupiers of agricultural holdings in Scotland are empowered to take and kill deer found on any arable, garden, or grassland forming part of the holding, and Agricultural Executive Committees may authorise the killing of deer on any land for the purpose of preventing damage to crops. My right hon. Friend 933 is responsible for seeing that the powers delegated to Agricultural Executive Committees are properly exercised and detailed instructions on the subject were issued on 3rd November, 1939.
§ Mr. MathersMay we have a general assurance that the transference of land from deer forests to agricultural purposes, and the ridding of the land of deer, is being actively pursued?
§ Mr. WestwoodI can give that assurance. In the year 1940–41, there have already been destroyed 22,000 deer.
§ Earl WintertonMay I ask whether some of the venison can be sent for sale in the South of England, where it would be very much desired as food in the months of September and October?
§ Mr. WestwoodI will look into that matter, but I cannot give a guarantee at the moment.