HL Deb 17 March 1993 vol 543 cc88-9WA
Lord Spens

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are aware of the apparent policy of some London local authorities to catch, transport and release urban foxes into the countryside, where they are found emaciated and starving and, if so, whether they understand this policy to have the approval of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

The Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Earl Howe)

No. I am aware of no evidence to support claims that urban foxes are being released into the countryside, and I understand that the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals does not advocate the moving of foxes from one area to another.