§ Mr. Macleanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, owing to the damage done to crops, poison is being offered by the Government at a reduced rate to Scottish farmers for the destruction of rabbits; and whether he is prepared to recommend the relaxation of the laws against poaching, and thereby enable rabbits to be snared and sold for food?
Mr. Johnston:Under the Defence Regulations extended rights have been given to occupiers to kill and take rabbits and ample powers have been delegated to Agricultural Executive Committees to enable them to require the destruction of rabbits by legal means. I would suggest that any skilled person who is willing to offer his services for rabbit killing should communicate with the local Agricultural Executive Committee. In order to ensure however that there should be sufficient reduction of the rabbit pest I have 49W arranged to continue this year the scheme to supply farmers with gas powder at reduced rates.