HC Deb 15 February 1934 vol 285 c2079
15. Lieut.-Colonel MOORE

asked the Home Secretary whether in view of the inadequacy of the sentences which can at present be imposed in cases of flagrant cruelty to animals, he will consider introducing legislation extendng the powers of His Majesty's courts to include flogging for such offences?

Mr. HACKING

I regret I cannot add anything to the reply which my right hon. Friend gave to a similar question by my hon. and gallant Friend last Thursday.

Lieut.-Colonel MOORE

Is the right hon. Gentleman not cognisant of the numerous regrets that have been expressed, both in the High Courts and in magistrates' courts at not being able to inflict the penalty of flogging in flagrant cases of cruelty, and will he not see that the only way to teach the meaning of pain is to inflict pain?

HON. MEMBERS

No.

Mr. HACKING

It is obvious that legislation will be required, and from the reception of my hon. Friend's remarks it is also obvious that such proposals would meet with some disapproval and would not be unanimous.

Mr. THORNE

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware of the pain which the Government inflict upon hon. Members on this side of the House?