HC Deb 23 October 1995 vol 264 cc436-7W
Mr. Salmond

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to conduct a similar investigation into the possibility of the existence of a large wild cat in Banffshire, similar to that carried out by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in Bodmin; and if he will make a statement. [36972]

Mr. Michael Forsyth

My Department maintains contact with Grampian police who, with the advice of veterinary and zoology experts, have examined reported incidents. The evidence found so far involves dogs and foxes only.

Mr. Salmond

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what resources he is prepared to allocate to determine whether there is a threat to livestock in Banffshire and Buchan from a big cat; and if he will make a statement. [36943]

Mr. Forsyth

Any incidents reported to my Department will be investigated appropriately.