§ Kate HoeyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he will make a decision on a byelaw to ban pigeon feeding in public places. [7465]
§ Mr. George HowarthWe are not persuaded that a byelaw to prohibit the feeding of pigeons in public places is justified. To create a criminal offence would be a disproportionate response and would criminalise otherwise law-abiding people.
Local authorities already have powers under part IV of the Public Health Act 1961 to take steps to abate or mitigate any nuisance, annoyance or damage caused by the congregation of pigeons in any built-up area.