HC Deb 04 March 1937 vol 321 cc523-4
33. Mr. Day

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the small penalties which under the present law may be in- flicted on persons convicted of extreme cruelty to animals, he will consider introducing amended legislation which will increase the minimum penalties that can be imposed?

Sir J. Simon

No doubt when the hon. Member says "minimum," he means "maximum." The maximum penalties are as stated in my answer to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Ayr Burghs (Lieut.-Colonel Moore) on 25th February, and I do not think fresh legislation as to maxima is required.

Mr. Day

Has the attention of the right hon. Gentleman been drawn to the indignation aroused by the light penalties imposed in cases of extreme cruelty in recent months?

Sir J. Simon

That question was asked me by two hon. Members recently, and the hon. Member, if he will refer to my replies, will see that I dealt with it.