§ Sir W. Edgeasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the increase in insect troubles, he has any information to show whether this is due to a reduction in the bird life of the country; and, if so, from what known cause?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonI am aware that there has been a noticeable increase in the numbers of certain common pests during the current year, but I understand that there is no reason to attribute this to any decline in the bird population. The different pests fluctuate widely in numbers from year to year, and the situation during the present year is well within the normal range of fluctuation.