§ Sir R. THOMASasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the economic value of many wild birds which feed upon insects and small mammals inimical to agriculture, he will set up an inquiry with the object of introducing legislation for the protection of all wild life which in this way helps to keep down agricultural pests?
Mr. GUINNESSI am not quite clear What kind of inquiry the hon. Member desires to suggest. Legislation for the protection of wild birds is in existence and a Bill for consolidating and strengthening the present Acts, is now before this House, and will, I hope, be passed into law during this Session. I may mention also that an Advisory Committee has been set up by the Home Office to advise on all matters relating to the protection of wild birds, which meets periodically and is available to consider any questions that may be brought before it. If the hon. Member has in mind any points to which he thinks special attention should be directed, I shall be happy to consult with the Home Secretary about them. As regards other forms of wild life, I will consider the question of a special inquiry.