§ Sir A. Bossomasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, now that rabbits are tending to live in the open instead of in burrows, and as gassing is no longer so effective, what means of destroying them he recommends.
Mr. AmoryWhere rabbits are living in cover above ground, the methods recommended for destroying them are driving and shooting over dogs, long netting and snaring. But the most effective remedy is to remove any scrub which might harbour rabbits and for this work grants are available.
§ Sir A. Bossomasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is aware that it is likely that there will be an increased number of rabbits all over the county of Kent by the autumn, as there has been a definite increase in the rabbit population even in areas thought to be clear; and if he will increase the inadequate resources available at county agricultural executive committee headquarters to deal with this pest.
Mr. AmoryI am aware that rabbits are appearing in increasing numbers in many parts of Kent. I do not consider that my pests staff in that county are inadequate for their proper functions, bearing in mind—and I must emphasise this once again—that it is the statutory responsibility of occupiers to deal with rabbits.