§ Mr. Cryerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many approvals for the gassing of badgers have been given in 1980 and to the most recent practicable date; and if he will list the areas concerned.
§ Mr. WigginTwenty-eight operations were authorised in 1980 and up to 16 January. The areas concerned are Avon, Cornwall, Devon, Gloucestershire, Somerset and Wiltshire.
§ Mr. Cryerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the source of information of appendix II of "Badgers, Cattle and Tuberculosis" and especially the figures of badger setts for West Yorkshire; whether these badger setts include both occupied and unoccupied setts; and whether the badger recorder for West Yorkshire was consulted in the compilation of the information.
§ Mr. WigginThe heading of the appendix makes it clear that the estimates relating to badger setts were prepared by a member of the Mammal Society. I understand these estimates were based on a count of occupied and unoccupied setts. The extent of consultation with their county badger recorders is entirely a matter for the Society.
§ Mr. Cryerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received following publication of "Badgers, Cattle and Tuberculosis" BNO 11 2403557; and whether he is satisfied that the figures of setts published in the report are accurate.
§ Mr. WigginWe have received 106 letters from the public criticising aspects of Lord Zuckerman's report and its recommendations. The report makes clear that the figures of the number and density of badger setts in its appendix II are estimates. I am satisfied that the references to setts gassed in the report are accurate.