HC Deb 10 February 1955 vol 536 cc2049-50
30. Mr. Watkins

asked the Minister of Agriculture what measures he is taking to stop the damage and destruction which is being caused by foxes to poultry following the effect of myxomatosis upon rabbits.

Mr. Amory

I have had no evidence submitted to me as yet that attacks by foxes have appreciably increased following outbreaks of myxomatosis, but farmers would be well advised to redouble their efforts to see that their stock is protected. I am consulting the interests concerned regarding action that might be taken to assist them.

Mr. Watkins

As the Minister is obviously not aware of the great concern there is about this matter in Wales at the present time, may I ask if he knows that his office in Wales is quite aware of it, and will he ask for reports on this situation immediately?

Mr. Amory

I have done exactly that. I have had reports right up to date from my county pest officers, including the result of a conference with the fox destruction societies held in Wales a day or two ago.

Sir R. Clarke

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that, in addition to rabbits, the normal diet of foxes comprises a great number of other small animals such as rats, mice, voles, and moles, and that, in the absence of rabbits, the consumption by foxes of those animals increases, and that in that way they are doing the farmers a great deal of good?

Mr. Amory

I should hate to think that my hon. and gallant Friend could possibly—conceivably—be biased in this matter, but I think that there is a very great deal of truth in what he says.