§ 3. Mr. LEONARDasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what system of inspection is directed towards fowls and rabbits exposed for sale as food, by auction or in shops; if he is satisfied that it is adequate; and whether he will take steps to substitute a close season to apply to the killing of rabbits?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Mr. Skelton)Ample powers are conferred by Section 43 of the Public Health (Scotland) Act, 1897, on local authorities for the purpose of securing the inspection of meat, including fowls and rabbits, exposed for sale for human consumption in shops, markets, and other premises. The work of inspection under the section is carried out by sanitary inspectors and veterinary officers employed by the local authorities and includes visits to the shops and markets where fowls and rabbits are sold or exposed for sale and the seizure and destruction of unsound or diseased animals or meat found there. My right hon. Friend is satisfied that the inspection is adequate. As regards the last part of the question rabbits are a serious pest in agriculture and my right hon. Friend is not prepared to take any steps to reduce the existing rights and facilities for their destruction.
§ Mr. LEONARDIs the hon. Gentleman aware that in Glasgow the inspection is practically confined to public markets and that a large amount of food of this description is sent to shops direct from places where there is no inspection?
§ Mr. SKELTONIf the hon. Gentleman has any cases he would like to bring to my notice, I shall be glad to discuss the matter with him.