§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many fox destruction clubs or societies are registered in Scotland; what is the level of assistance they currently receive; what guidelines he issues on how these societies destroy foxes; what guidelines he has issued on the number of foxes to be destroyed; how the fox population is assessed; and if he will make a statement. [24126]
§ Sir Hector MonroGrants are paid to 29 societies or clubs throughout Scotland to meet 50 per cent. of the approved cost of carrying out systematic fox control within a clearly defined area of adequate size. Grants amounting to £68,000 were paid in 1994–95. Records are not kept of clubs not in receipt of grant.
Foxes may be killed legally by shooting, snaring or cage trapping followed by humane dispatch. The Scottish Office Agriculture and Fisheries Department does not advise on the number of foxes to be destroyed. The fox is not an endangered species and there is no reason to engage in regular surveys.