§ 28. Mr. Russellasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is aware that wild birds such as finches are being imported from India and kept in cages, whereas under the Protection of Birds Act, 1954, it is illegal to possess any such bird taken or killed in the United Kingdom; and if he will introduce legislation to prevent these imports.
§ The Minister of State, Home Department (Mr. Dennis Vosper)My right hon. Friend already has powers under Section 7 of the Act to prohibit the import of live wild birds. On present information he is not satisfied that there is a case for exercising these powers in the manner suggested.
§ Mr. RussellIs my right hon. Friend aware that, although a number of these birds imported into this country are re-exported, some of them apparently stay, here? Will he look into it and watch the situation very carefully, particularly as regards birds which come here by air?
§ Mr. VosperYes. I have pointed out that my right hon. Friend has the powers at the moment, but on the information at present available he has not thought fit to exercise them.