HC Deb 09 May 1927 vol 206 c50W
Mr. GROVES

asked the Home Secretary if he will state separately, in respect of each species of wild bird protected by county order, the number of county areas in which they are protected, either for the close season only or otherwise?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

I am not clear what it is exactly the hon. Member wishes to have. All birds are protected during the close season by the Act of 1880, some being protected absolutely, others against all persons except the owner or occupier of the land. Orders may be made extending the protection against the owner or occupier to birds not so protected by the Act, or extending the close season, or protecting the eggs. Such Orders have been made for every county, and for a large number of boroughs; the provisions of these Orders are very numerous and complicated, and a great deal of labour would be involved in preparing a table showing what birds have received additional protection, what kind of protection and in what areas. The complexity of the present position in regard to this matter is one of the chief reasons for which the Wild Birds Committee recommended fresh legislation.