HC Deb 09 April 1925 vol 182 cc2405-6
12. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Home Secretary whether he has initiated any prosecutions for coursing rabbits or hares on Sundays?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

The answer is in the negative.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Why have no prosecutions taken place for coursing for game on Sunday? Is it not illegal to course on the Sabbath?

Sir W. JOYNSON- HICKS

As a sportsman the hon. and gallant Gentleman will know that rabbits are not game.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

I am quite aware of that fact, but I was asking about hares. I wanted to know whether it was not illegal to course for rabbits or hares on Sunday?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

As I told the hon. and gallant Gentleman the other day, I have received only one complaint in regard to this matter. If he will forward me any complaints I will have it inquired into.

Mr. JOHNSTON

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider that cruelty on Sunday is any more reprehensible than cruelty on a Saturday?

Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKS

No.