HC Deb 22 February 1967 vol 741 c1697
13. Mr. Alasdair Mackenzie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if, in view of the large number of lambs killed by foxes during the past number of lambing seasons, he will ask the Forestry Commission and the other bodies concerned to intensify their efforts both jointly and severally this spring, in order to reduce the losses suffered by farmers and crofters in hill areas in the crofting counties.

Mr. Buchan

My right hon. Friend is satisfied that the Forestry Commission and the other bodies concerned appreciate the need to reduce losses of stock from foxes and will continue to do all they can to keep foxes under control.

Mr. Mackenzie

While I thank the Under-Secretary for that assurance, which I think relates to Departments for which the Secretary of State is responsible—the Forestry Commission and the Department of Agriculture—may I ask whether he is satisfied that private landlords are pulling their full weight in overcoming the fox menace?

Mr. Buchan

That is another question, but I am glad to hear the satisfaction the hon. Gentleman expressed about the work of the Forestry Commission.