§ 2. Mr. William Priceasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will introduce legislation to ban the sale of dogs, dead or alive, for the purposes of pelting.
§ Mr. David LaneNo, Sir.
§ Mr. PriceIs the hon. Member aware that since the first batch of dog skins was found in my constituency, it has become clear that this vile practice is both growing and profitable? Does he not appreciate that the pelting of dogs in whatever circumstances, whether bred for the purpose of sales off the streets or merely sold after they have been destroyed, causes dismay to the majority of people, and will he say what he intends to do about the situation?
§ Mr. LaneI appreciate the strong feelings on this matter, but we have to strike a balance between sentiment and common sense. The important point is to make sure that any dogs which have to be put down are put down humanely. There are difficulties in the hon. Gentleman's suggestion, but if he has further evidence that the practice is growing unduly I hope that he will let me have that evidence.
§ Mr. Arthur LewisIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the firm about which complaints have been made is situated in my constituency and has been doing a wonderful job of keeping people employed? Is this any different from other types of work of this nature, since probably every hon. Member in this House is wearing shoes which are made of leather?
§ Mr. LewisProvided that it is done properly and the animal is dead, what difference does it make? I speak as an animal lover, and I have my own dog. If the process is pursued as the firm in my constituency pursues it, in a proper manner and in conjunction with the various charitable organisations, surely there is no harm in it.