§ 111. Mr. KINGasked the Home Secretary whether his attention had been called to the case of Leonard James Laker, who, being without money to buy food for his family, took six pheasants from a pen and was sentenced by the Midhurst bench to the maximum penalty of six months' hard labour; whether he is aware that this man was taken after being tracked by a special constable with a bloodhound, and whether he will inquire into this case with a view to a possible reduction of the sentence?
§ Mr. McKENNAMy attention has been drawn to this case, and I have made inquiry into it, but I regret that it does not appear to be one in which I should be justified in advising interference with the sentence. The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge and asked that it might be dealt with summarily. He was in permanent employment at the date the offence was committed, and in receipt of regular wages.
§ Mr. McKENNAIt depends upon the offence, but in cases of this kind my hon. Friend must understand I cannot act as a Court of Appeal.
§ Sir WILLIAM BYLESGet rid of the Game Laws!