HC Deb 02 April 1936 vol 310 cc2113-4
33. Mr. WATKINS

asked the Home Secretary in view of the cruelty to the horses and risk to the jockeys competing in the Grand National steeplechase, whether he will take steps to prevent such cruelty and risk in future?

Mr. LLOYD

My right hon. Friend has no power to take any action in the matter.

Mr. WATKINS

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there has been this year, as in previous years, very widespread protests about this race, and will he impress upon his right hon. Friend the desirability of the Home Secretary seeking powers so that this race may be modified and made safer in the future?

Mr. ANSTRLITHER-GRAY

Is my hon. Friend aware that the danger to horses at Liverpool is not much greater than at any other course, and, as far as the jockeys are concerned, there is no rider, professional or amateur, riding to-day who will not gladly face whatever risk there is for the chance of having the honour of winning that race?