HC Deb 24 June 1952 vol 502 cc2028-9
37. Mr. F. Maclean

asked the Minister of Works whether he is yet in a position to make a statement regarding the sex of the pelicans in St. James's Park.

Mr. Eccles

No, Sir. I am advised that the birds are still too young to reveal their sex.

Mr. Bowles

Is the Minister not aware that if he takes a needle and thread, sticks the needle into a cork and holds it over the pelican, if it is a male it will swing in line and if it is a female it will go round in circles?

Mr. Eccles

I am aware that we are beginning to have competition from the Japanese, but not in this connection.