§ 33. Sir. W. Anstruther-Grayasked the Secretary of State for Scotland which trap he is now recommending for the destruction of rabbits; and whether he is satisfied that it is in every respect capable of replacing the type of spring trap now in use.
§ Mr. MaclayI have approved the Imbra Mark I, Imbra Mark II and Juby traps for killing or taking rabbits in rabbit holes. I am satisfied that these traps will catch and kill rabbits almost as efficiently as the gin trap and without causing the suffering inflicted by the gin trap, but, under the statutory provisions, I cannot prohibit the use of the gin trap 193 until I am also satisfied that, among other considerations, the approved traps are available in adequate quantities at reasonable prices.
§ Sir W. Anstruther-GrayWhile supporting the humanity of my right hon. Friend's reply, may I ask him if he could state how these traps compare in weight and in price with the present gin traps?
§ Mr. MaclayNot without notice of that question.
§ Mr. PagetNow that the gassing of rabbits is so efficient and so easy to work, will not the right hon. Gentleman consider recommending the abolition of traps altogether, no matter of what kind, and stop this abominable practice?
§ Mr. MaclayThere is a great variety of ways in which trapping has to be done, and I am afraid that I could not realistically consider that suggestion at this time.