§ Sir T. Beamishasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what prospect there is of finding an equally effective and economical method of controlling moles other than by using strychnine; and if he is satisfied that sufficient care is being taken when using this poison not to offend against the Protection of Animals Acts, thus risking injury or death to domestic animals and wild birds.
§ Mr. HoyResearch on mole control continues, but no satisfactory substitute for strychnine has been found. My230W Department strictly controls the issue of permits for the purchase of strychnine for killing moles. Permits are issued only to persons who can show that they need the poison and know how to use it, and every permit is accompanied by a statement of the recommendations for the safe use of strychnine for mole destruction. I am satisfied that the recommendations offer the most practical safeguard for the protection of other species and that they are followed