§ 77. Mr. Peter Freemanasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware of the increase of scorpions, locusts and other pests, following the destruction of baboons in Gambia, who previously destroyed these insects; and whether he will review the present method of payment for tails of these baboons the killing of which is at present being carried out by inhumane methods in many cases.
§ Mr. LytteltonNo increase in scorpions, locusts or other pests has been observed, since the campaign was launched in 1951 against baboons, and other animals which were estimated to be destroying one tenth of the crops. No reports of inhumane methods have reached me.