84. Mr. EDMUND HARVEYasked the Secretary for Mines whether his Department is undertaking any measures to deal with cases of cruelty to pit ponies?
§ The SECRETARY for MINES (Mr. Shinwell)The hon Member is, I am sure, aware that active measures in this matter are constantly being taken by the Mines Department, and I am considering whether any additional safeguards for the ponies are necessary.
§ Mr. W. THORNEIs the hon. Member aware of the cruelties inflicted upon women and children on account of the low wages paid in the mines?
§ 87. Mr. BALFOURasked the Secretary for Mines how many prosecutions and convictions there have been during the year 1923 in respect of cruelty to pit ponies, distinguished clearly between prosecutions of owners or managers and prosecutions of miners, drivers, or putters?
§ Mr. SHINWELLAgainst the management there were five prosecutions under the Coal Mines Act in respect of the treatment of pit ponies, and four convictions; against employés there were 23 prosecutions and 21 convictions. Prosecutions under the Protection of Animals Act are not required to be reported to my inspectors, and I have therefore no record of them.
§ Sir W. DAVISONCan the hon. Member assure the House that the condition 2134 of pit ponies is being steadily improved?
§ Mr. SHINWELLYes, I can.