HL Deb 02 March 1971 vol 315 cc1332-4WA
THE EARL OF MANSFIELD

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are aware that the largest number of casualties among wildfowl and other birds, caused by collision with the masts, cables and stays of television, electrical or tracking installations, occur during the hours or darkness, or half-light, when these birds go to and from their feeding grounds; and whether they will therefore consider the advisability of having such cables, etc., on the proposed tracking station at Loch Strathbeg, Aberdeenshire, illuminated during the hours of darkness, and thereby reduce the serious casualties that must otherwise take place, to the birds frequenting one of the most important roosting, and wintering areas in Western Europe.

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DEFENCE (LORD CARRINGTON)

I appreciate the particular hazard presented to wildfowl and other birds by aerial arrays during the hours of darkness and half-light when the birds go to and from their feeding grounds. Consequently, advice has been sought on how to make the birds more aware of any potential hazard. There is very little data available on the number of bird casualties caused by masts and wires, but if this proves a serious problem consideration will be given to all reasonable solutions, including illumination.

House adjourned at seventeen minutes past six o'clock.