HC Deb 02 December 1925 vol 188 cc2219-21
47. Mr. T. THOMSON

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the grave charges made by a Departmental Committee against the actions of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and its denial of the same, the Government will take the necessary steps to secure a full inquiry in order that the public may know the truth of the matter?

Major Sir HARRY BARNSTON (Comptroller of the Household)

I have been asked to reply. No, Sir. The Departmental Committee made a very thorough inquiry into the whole question of the export of horses, including methods of killing abroad. Evidence was given before the Committee by representatives of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which was carefully weighed by the Committee in framing their Report. No new facts regarding the points complained of have subsequently been brought to light, and my right hon. Friend sees no occasion for further inquiry into the matter.

Captain GEE

May I ask the hon. and gallant Gentleman whether the Government will warn the public against subscribing to this and other kindred societies allied in this charge?

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise.

Major the Marquess of TITCHFIELD

As a member of the Committee, I should like to ask whether the hon. and gallant Gentleman does not agree that the sole aim of the Committee was to get at the truth of the conditions of the export of horses from this country? I should also like to ask whether, after having read the Report, he does not agree that the genuineness of the so-called "faked film" was only upheld on secondhand evidence? Also I should like to ask— [HON. MEMBERS: "Order, order!"]

Mr. SPEAKER

That question of the hon. and gallant Gentleman was answered by the Minister some little time ago in the House when he dealt with the matter.

Dr. DRUMMOND SHIELS

Are not the charges which have been made by the hon. and gallant Member for Bosworth. (Captain Gee) in this House an additional reason why the inquiry asked for into this Report should be given?

Major BARNSTON

The Report is published and is there for anyone to read and draw their own conclusions.

Mr. LANSBURY

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the cost is prohibitive, and only after they have the evidence can the public judge for themselves the truth of the statement?

Mr. SPEAKER

That, again, is a matter which was dealt with in Debate recently.

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