§ Mr. Kershawasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware that the Grey Seals Protection Act, 1932, is defective in its provisions and its penalties and fails to provide adequate protection to the grey seal, and that the common seal is totally unprotected; in view of the danger of extermination of both types of seal, what proposals he has to remedy this situation; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MackieThe grey seal is continuing to increase in numbers under the protection provided by the Grey Seals Protection Act, 1932, which is proving effective for its purpose, and there is no evidence that the common seal is declining in numbers, even though it is unprotected.
Neither species is in danger of extermination and no new measures are under consideration by the Departments concerned.