§ 44. Mr. Brewisasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what estimate he has of the damage caused by wild geese to grass and crops during the spring; and whether he will review the legislation granting protection to these birds.
§ Mr. William RossWild geese do cause damage to crops and grass in some areas but no precise overall figures are available, and these could not be readily obtained. The Advisory Committee on the Protection of Birds for Scotland is considering what steps might be taken to reduce the damage caused by wild geese, and I shall consider the matter in the light of the committee's advice.