Written question asked by Ron Davies (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 20 November 1996. It was answered by Lord Hague of Richmond (Conservative) on Wednesday, 20 November 1996 on behalf of the Welsh Office.

Welsh Office

Question: How many licences he has issued during the last 12 months for the taking of piscivorous birds; how many birds of what species have been taken under each such licence; and on what evidence such licences have been issued. - Inc figs.

Answer: Mr. Ron Davies: To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many licences he has issued during the last 12 months for the taking of piscivorous birds; how many birds of what species have been taken under each such licence; and on what evidence such licences have been issued. [4744] Mr. Hague: During the 12-month period 1 October 1995 to 30 September 1996, 13 licences permitting the limited shooting of piscivorous birds were issued. Under these licences, a total of eight cormorants and 13 goosanders were taken. Licences for the shooting of piscivorous birds, as a means of reinforcing other scaring methods, are granted taking account of information supplied by the applicant and on advice provided by ADAS following site visits and consultations with other interested bodies. The number of birds shot against five of the licences is listed in the following table: _________________________________________________________________________________________________. Birds Number Number Number Number Number Goosanders 1 6 3 0 3 Cormorants 0 3 1 1 3 _________________________________________________________________________________________________. No birds were shot under the remaining eight licences.

Secondary information