53. Lieut.-Colonel MOOREasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that considerable suffering is caused to dogs, rabbits and other animals through being caught in the steel-toothed traps now in use; and whether he will consider the matter of introducing legislation to prevent the use of any traps for the trapping of animals which are not free from objections relating to cruelty?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSThe question of prohibiting the use of these traps has been considered on several occasions, but the National Farmers' Union, who were consulted on the subject in 1924, expressed the opinion that they were the only available method of preventing the serious economic loss which would be caused to agriculture by the multiplication of vermin. The existing law in regard to the protection of animals gives sufficient powers in cases where unnecessary suffering is being caused, and in the circumstances I am afraid the Government cannot see its way to propose legislation.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSDoes the right hon. Gentleman agree with the Farmers' Union that there is no effective means available for destroying rabbits, except the use of these traps?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI know enough about the subject to be aware of the fact that rabbits and rats are exceedingly difficult to exterminate, and that they both consume great quantities of food and are detrimental to agriculture.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the rabbit itself is a food?