§ 42. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if he is aware of the loss of bird life on the coast of North-West Germany as a result of recent bombing practice in the neighbourhood of Cuxhaven; and if he will discontinue this practice.
Mr. WardThe danger to birds on the bombing range near Cuxhaven is greatest during the moulting season in July and August. I am considering what alterations we can make to our practice bombing programme during these two months.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister aware that there has been considerable damage to bird life in this bird sanctuary at different times of the year from those which he mentioned? Is he aware that on 19th October the German Press described the results of this bombing raid on the German coast and said that bird life was destroyed, and that this roused considerable indignation in Germany? Will the hon. Gentleman assure us that in future our German allies will be treated with more respect, and that the bombing of the German coast will be discontinued?
Mr. WardI am aware of the seriousness of the problem. I have considered it carefully. The reports referred to harm done to birds in July and August. That is because they are moulting then and 375 cannot fly. They cannot get out of the way. I am looking into the matter to see what we can do.