HC Deb 20 May 1931 vol 252 cc1972-3
58. Mr. FREEMAN

asked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that Mr. S. P. Male, of Reading, has, during 1930–31, performed a number of experiments on living animals for the purpose of gland grafting, calculated to give pain: that no licence has been granted to this gentleman; and what action he proposes to take in the matter?

Mr. SHORT

My right hon. Friend has inquired into the facts of this case and finds that the operations in question were performed by Mr. Male, in the ordinary course of veterinary practice for the purpose of treatment of the patients. They were, therefore, not experiments within the meaning of the relevant statute, and my right hon. Friend has no jurisdiction in the matter.

Mr. FREEMAN

Is no licence required in a case of this description, even although pain is caused?

Mr. SHORT

My right hon. Friend has no jurisdiction at all.