HC Deb 06 May 1919 vol 115 cc743-4
52. Earl WINTERTON

asked the Prime Minister if he will, in view of the harm to the public likely to be caused by the smuggling of dogs from abroad into this country, introduce legislation making such an offence punishable, at a magistrate's discretion, by imprisonment up to twelve months?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

There are penalties enforceable under the present law for this offence, and it is not proposed to amend the law as suggested by my Noble and gallant Friend.

Earl WINTERTON

Is it not the fact that penalties imposed under the present law have proved quite inadequate to stop these offences, and is my hon. and gallant Friend aware that these offences are chiefly caused by rich and selfish people, to whom fines are no deterrent?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

I think they are sufficient, but, if not, I will propose an amendment.

Earl WINTERTON

Have they stopped the offence? That is the point.

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

Not entirely; but I am perfectly certain they have reduced them very largely.