asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how much was paid during the last twelve months under the cartridge rebate scheme; and whether he will economise on this item.

About £42,000. In view of the serious damage caused by wood pigeons, my right hon. Friend would not feel justified in reducing the rebate at the present time, but the scheme will be reviewed at the close of the shooting season.

Mr. Hind:

Does not the Minister think there is something unsatisfactory in these days of stringency that the taxpayer should be asked to subsidise what is very largely a type of sport? Would it not be just as illogical to ask a taxpayer to provide red coats for foxhunters?

I do not propose to comment on the second part of that supplementary question. As regards the first part, wood pigeons are a serious menace and are very difficult indeed to deal with, and until we can find some alternative method we really must try to deal with them in this way.

Mr. Philips Price:

Would the Minister bear in mind that the wood pigeon is a serious pest and that the money spent is a good investment?

How many wood pigeons are being shot?