HC Deb 26 November 1992 vol 214 cc800-1W
Mr. Alex Carlile

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what proposals he has to prevent agricultural damage in Wales caused by Canada geese; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Hunt

The Agricultural Development and Advisory Service in Wales provides guidance to farmers on various methods of controlling Canada geese. Farmers suffering agricultural damage from Canada geese can control these birds during the open season by legal methods which include shooting or deploying scaring techniques. During the close season, which runs from 21 February to 31 August, licences to shoot Canada geese are available from the Welsh Office, provided applicants can demonstrate the need to prevent serious agricultural damage.

Mr. Alex Carlile

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many Canada geese were estimated to be inhabiting Wales in 1970, 1980, 1990 and 1992; what is the estimated agricultural damage these geese have caused since 1990; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Hunt

This information is not collected centrally. There have been reported increases in the numbers of Canada geese in recent years. Various measures to control them are available to the farming industry.