§ 25. Mr. Mathersasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether farmers or crofters, suffering loss owing to crops being destroyed by deer, will be compensated by landlords who fail to kill off the deer or take other steps to protect the crops?
Mr. JohnstonThis question is at present before the Scottish Land Court, and it would not be proper for me to make any comment on a matter which is still sub judice. My hon. Friend is aware, however, that occupiers of agricultural holdings in Scotland are empowered to take and kill deer found on any arable, garden, or grass-land forming part of the holding and that agricultural executive committees may authorise the killing of deer upon any land for the purpose of preventing damage to crops.
§ Mr. MathersDoes the right hon. Gentleman recognise that this Question refers to people who are not in a position to take these steps for themselves?
Mr. JohnstonYes, Sir, but I answered that specific Question in the first part of my answer, where I stated that an action on this issue was still sub judice.