§ 21. Mr. GROVESasked the Home Secretary whether he has any information as to the numbers of riders and horses killed or injured in connection with steeplechasing during the last three years; whether his is aware of the increasing public resentment at this sport; and whether he will consider introducing legislation to prevent the urging of horses to negotiate dangerous obstacles, and control or prohibit any form of sport involving cruelty and risk of life to both rider and horse?
§ Mr. GROVESIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that on some of these courses the obstacles are perpendicular, thereby causing cruelty to the animals, and probably accidents to the riders; and, in view of these facts, will he consider making an agreement with the Hunt Committee in order that these brutalities and fatalities may be avoided?
Viscountess ASTORMay I be permitted to ask the hon. Member for Stratford (Mr. Groves), whether he would get on a horse and try to ride one of these jumps before he puts a question like that?
§ Mr. GROVESYes.