§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what policies he has for controlling the Canada geese population by non-lethal means; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Atkins[holding answer 12 July 1994]: My Department has set up a working group to develop a management strategy to reduce the scale of damage caused by Canada geese.
Later this month we intend to publish a leaflet prepared by the working group giving advice to estate managers, park authorities and landowners on legal techniques for controlling Canada geese. The techniques include a variety of non-lethal methods such as scaring, habitat management, adjustment of cropping patterns, alteration of feeding areas and fencing.
The group will continue to develop a long-term management strategy.
§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, pursuant to his answer of 5 July,Official Report, column 131, what information he has on exactly which method or methods have been used to kill Canada geese in London parks this year.
§ Mr. Atkins[holding answer 11 July 1994]: This year, action taken under licence to kill or control Canada geese has included shooting and egg pricking.