21. Lieut.-Commander Clark Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will introduce legislation for the protection of Scottish rare birds.
§ Mr. J. StuartWild birds are at present protected during certain periods of the year by general legislation, and local authorities have power to apply for orders protecting birds in their area during periods of the year when no general protection is provided. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the 12 Home Department and I are considering proposals submitted by the English and Scottish Wild Birds Advisory Committees to clarify and strengthen the law on this subject.