Written question asked by Elfyn Llwyd (Plaid Cymru) on Friday, 29 October 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 4 November 2004. It was answered by Alun Michael (Labour) on Thursday, 4 November 2004 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what research has been undertaken to assess the effect of a ban on the hunting of foxes on the predation of ground nesting birds; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Llwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what research has been undertaken to assess the effect of a ban on the hunting of foxes on the predation of ground nesting birds; and if she will make a statement. [195775] Alun Michael: The Department is not aware of specific academic research into the predation of foxes on ground nesting birds. However, we recognise the damage which foxes can do to such birds. The Hunting Bill, introduced into the House of Lords, which would have introduced a general ban on hunting with dogs, included a specific exemption related to this issue. This is designed to ensure that gamekeepers or others can continue to use dogs to control pests which threaten ground nesting birds in their care.

Secondary information