§ Mr. Dubsasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received about the nuisance caused by squirrels in urban areas; and if he will consider putting local authorities under a statutory obligation to control these animals.
§ Mr. FoxRepresentations have been made by local authorities, in connection with the Department's current review of the law of statutory nuisance, that they should have discretionary powers enabling them to take measures to deal with nuisance caused in urban areas by certain birds and animals, including the grey squirrel. There have been no representations in favour of a mandatory duty. All representations are currently being considered. Any change in current legislation would, of course, need to take account of animal welfare and conservation, as well as local authority resources.