§ Sir R. Glynasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has recently been in touch with the Masters of Foxhounds Association, in view of the damage that is being done by foxes to poultry all over the country, and as the Masters of Foxhounds Association have recommended hunts in all areas to co-operate in every way in putting down foxes; and whether he is satisfied that plans are in hand to deal systematically with the destruction of foxes, especially near built-up areas?
Mr. HudsonMy Department maintains close touch with the Masters of Foxhounds Association respecting damage by foxes, and I am satisfied that, generally speaking, County War Agricultural Executive Committees are taking appropriate steps to deal with foxes, and that Hunts are cooperating with the Committees in this direction. Where, however, voluntary methods appear to be ineffective or inadequate, I am prepared, in appropriate cases, to give powers under the Defence Regulations to particular County Committees to require the destruction of foxes.