§ Mr. PENNYasked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the gradually decreasing numbers of the lapwing, plover, or peewit, commonly known as the farmers' friend, he will make it illegal for the eggs of this bird to be taken or exposed for sale between the dates 15th March and 30th May?
Mr. HENDERSONFollowing a recommendation of the Departmental Committee on the Protection of Wild Birds and on the advice of the Wild Birds Advisory Committee a special provision was included in the Wild Birds Protection Bill of last Session to prohibit the collection of the lapwing's eggs after the 15th April and their sale after the 20th April. On the question of proceeding with this Bill I am afraid I can only refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave on the 13th March.