§ 37. Lieut.-Colonel Mooreasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been drawn to the recent cock-fight held in France in which British birds took part, and in which many were stated to have been killed; and whether, seeing that such participation is not permissible under the animal protection laws of this country, he proposes to take any action?
§ Sir J. SimonCock-fighting is wholly illegal in this country and is punishable as cruelty to animals. English law, of course, has no application in France, but I am causing inquiries to be made, and will communicate with my hon. Friend.
§ Lieut.-Colonel MooreWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for his answer, may I ask, in view of the fact that there are inspectors of the Ministry of Agriculture at our ports, and after the clear declaration which was given in this House last Friday about the exportation of animals for butchery, whether he will bear in mind the possible prohibition of the export of birds for similar purposes?
§ Sir J. SimonI am having inquiries made, and I do not think I can say any more at the moment.
§ Mr. ThurtleIs not this the traditional sport of the British aristocracy?
§ Sir J. SimonIn the old prints showing this sport in ancient times, I have observed a representation of horny-handed sons of toil.