§ Mr. Kilroy-Silkasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is his estimate of the number of cormorants in England; and if their numbers are declining.
§ Mr. WaldegraveI have been asked to reply.
The last survey of the cormorant population took place in 1969–70, when it was estimated that the total number of breeding pairs in England was 1,116. There is no firm evidence available at the moment to indicate any change in this level. I understand, however, that the British Trust for Ornithology is currently undertaking a pilot study in 403W preparation for a major survey next year. It is hoped that this may be able to provide reliable information on current population levels.