HC Deb 30 May 1912 vol 38 c1564
Dr. ADDISON

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether his attention has been called to the case of Mr. Withey, of 104, Clifton Street, Finsbury, who was sentenced at the Clerkenwell Police Court on 10th May to a month's imprisonment, without the option of a fine, for sending out a horse in an improper condition; and whether, in view of the fact that this man has always borne a good character, with a record of ten years' employment in, one situation, he will call for an account of the case with a view to a reconsideration of the sentence?

Mr. McKENNA

My attention was called to the case, but I found no reason to justify interference with the sentence. The prisoner was responsible for working a horse when it was so lame and weak that it could hardly walk. The magistrate himself inspected the horse before he passed sentence.

Dr. ADDISON

Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire into the truth of the statement recently published in the Press that one constable alone has been responsible for more than 1,000 cases since 1904, and one veterinary inspector for 10,000 cases, and will he have a Report as to what percentage of the animals so examined have been condemned?

Mr. McKENNA

Perhaps my hon. Friend will give me notice of the question.