HC Deb 08 February 1999 vol 325 cc100-1W
Mr. Nigel Jones

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if the Government's badger culling scheme has measures in place(a) to record badger population densities and (b) to estimate the proportion of badgers culled. [68606]

Mr. Rooker

There are no validated methods for establishing badger populations from field evidence of badger activity. The Department is currently finalising contracts for research in this area, which will build on data collected during the randomised culling trial. Culling efficiency during the trial is being monitored and will be audited, and the data will subsequently be reviewed in the light of research. However, the trial has been designed to test practical options and has such statistical power that it is not necessary to know precise culling efficiencies.

Mr. Nigel Jones

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if the Government's badger culling scheme has been audited by external auditors. [68605]

Mr. Rooker

I refer the hon. Member to the reply given to him on 2 February 1999,Official Report, column 602.