Pigeon Trap
In the June issue I note a reference to the pigeon trap at H.B.C. Calgary Gun Club.
As a devotee of the gun myself, and without any wish to presume to dictate to Mr. Chamberlain or any member of the Gun Club, I would respectfully draw his attention to the fact that the practice of shooting live pigeons sprung from traps has received severe condemnation; so much so that it is contemplated to discontinue the "sport" at Monte Carlo, Biarritz, and many other fashionable resorts. Also the British parliament intended to set the seal of its disapproval on this pastime by an Act which would render it prohibitive.
The Times of April 27th, 1921, says:
"A standing committee of the House of Commons, over which Mr. Hodge presided, yesterday considered the Bill introduced by Sir Burton Chadwick to prohibit the use of captive birds in all shooting carried on under artificial conditions.
"Sir Burton Chadwick moved a minor amendment to Clause 1, which renders any person concerned in shooting of captive birds liable to a maximum fine of £25, or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months or to both."
Again on May 27th, The Times reports:
"We are able to state on high authority that the directors of the Casino at Monte Carlo have decided to abandon the use of living birds in the pigeon-shooting competitions at Monte Carlo."
John McMurray, Chief Accountant's Office,
Winnipeg