I move amendment 2:
In page 6, First Schedule, after the words "Finch (all kinds)" to insert within the brackets the words "except bullfinch."
This deals with the question of the bullfinch. There was a considerable difference of opinion amongst persons who are masters of bird lore. Some thought that the bullfinch should be a bird preserved under this Bill. On the other hand a considerable number seemed to think that the bullfinch does such a very considerable amount of damage, especially to young fruit trees, that it is a bird that, in spite of very beautiful appearance, should not be protected. It is a matter upon which I, of my own personal knowledge, can state very little to the House because I have got only the average country-reared man's knowledge of the habits of birds. I cannot say that I am in any way an expert. Weighing up the views put before me and the weight of opinion that seemed to be behind them, I came to the conclusion that bullfinches ought not to be protected under this Bill. It is a matter upon which the House, if it so wishes, should have an opportunity of expressing its opinion.