Birds which are pests to the farmer are not protected,
We are glad to see that the eggs of the plover-a true farmer's friend and an exquisitely beautiful bird into the bargain—are not to be sold at any time. The Bill also provides that birds may not be pursued in motor cars or motor boats or aircraft. This last provision sweeps us into the region of imagination, but in a few years it may seem to be quite a necessary and commonplace prohibition. Trappers will have to hay for a licence. Surely what ought to be done is to
prohibit
trapping and the caging of wild birds, altogether. We are also sorry to see that the Bill allows the sale of bolo for food. Mr. Manton said that the Bill was a tole Tory Bill, providing for small aristocratic classes and putting a huge proletariat into category three. On the whole we fear that the Bill as it stands might give less protection than the birds enjoy now. The point however, that it is right in principle and it can he greatly improved. in Committee.
Previous page
