§ Mr. Grimondasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he proposes to take to protect the common seal in areas where indiscriminate slaughter is threatening stocks.
§ Mr. HoyWe have at present no evidence that stocks of the common seal in England and Wales are being threatened, but the effects of hunting on them are being assessed by the Natural Environment Research Council.
§ Mr. Roebuckasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware of the public concern about the inefficient and cruel slaughter of common seals; and if he will introduce legislation to give protection to these creatures.
§ Mr. HoyAny strengthening of the existing legislation against cruelty to animals would need to be considered in relation to wild animals generally and not only seals. While there is no prospect of it being possible to introduce such legislation in the foreseeable future, the issues involved are being considered by the interested Departments.