HC Deb 20 January 1988 vol 125 c720W
Mr. Tony Banks

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has issued licences to permit the shooting of Greenland white-fronted geese on Islay; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Morley

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland for what reason permission was given to allow the shooting of white-fronted geese on Islay; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Michael Forsyth

Licences have been granted under powers contained in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to two farmers on Islay to shoot white-fronted geese. This step has had to be taken because substantial increases in the numbers of such geese on the island have led to serious damage being caused to grassland. The very limited issue of licences is intended to enhance the effectiveness of the scaring programme recently introduced with the aim of restricting the geese to the sanctuary areas. The effects will be closely monitored.