HC Deb 21 February 1921 vol 138 cc545-6
38. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Prime Minister if he is aware of the many proved cases of cruelty involved in the breaking and training of wild and domestic animals, other than horses, for performances on the stage and in travelling circuses, and that an increasing number of people object to these performances; and if he will consider introducing legislation on this subject?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Sir J. Baird)

I have been asked by the Prime Minister to answer this question. I have no information to the effect suggested in the first two paragraphs. Cruelty to animals for the purpose of training them for performances is an offence and can be dealt with under Section 1 of the Protection of Animals Act, 1911; and on the information at present before me, I am not satisfied that it is necessary to extend these provisions.

Lieut - Commander KENWORTHY

Will the hon. Gentleman find time to look into cases giving evidence of gross cruelty if I send them to him?

Colonel C. LOWTHER

Is it a fact that there is no form of official supervision whatever?

Sir J. BAIRD

There is no official supervision, but under the Act to which I have referred—that of 1911—the police have power on their own observation or on reports being received, to arrest people for cruelty.

Commander BELLAIRS

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that nearly all the cases of cruelty can be traced to foreign trainers, and that British trainers are always willing to afford facilities for investigation?

Sir J. BAIRD

I have no information on the subject. I shall be very glad to receive information that anybody sends on the subject, so that those guilty of cruelty may be prosecuted.

Lieut.-Colonel MURRAY

Will the hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of supporting a private Bill on the subject, if introduced?

Sir J. BAIRD

It depends on the character of the Bill.

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