HC Deb 06 February 1941 vol 368 c1077
52. Mr. Leslie

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will consider prohibiting hunting of carted stags in view of the cruelty inflicted and the fact that the only damage to crops, etc., is caused by the hunters?

Mr. Hudson

I understand from my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Home Department that it was not before the war, and is not now, an offence to hunt carted stags. I have no information that appreciable damage is done to crops or food production by stag hunting.

Mr. Leslie

Can nothing be done to prevent this cruel, brutal thing, which is so contrary to the idea of real sport?

Mr. Hudson

It is primarily a matter for the Home Secretary.

Mr. Leslie

I put the Question down to the Home Secretary, but it was transferred to the Minister of Agriculture.