HC Deb 02 December 1946 vol 431 cc1-2
1. Mr. Thomas Macpherson

asked the Minister of Food if he will make arrangements to stop the present method of earmarking pigs in Romford Market, which causes unnecessary cruelty to the animals and is objectionable to the public.

The Minister of Food (Mr. Strachey)

This method of marking has been in operation since January, 1940. I am assured that it is far less painful than many of the routine operations on the farm. I am afraid that it has to be done.

Mr. Macpherson

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the screams of these unfortunate animals are most distressing to the citizens of that part? Has he explored the possibility of using some form of indelible ink which would enable the necessary identification to be made?

Mr. Baldwin

Is the Minister aware that if one picked up a pig and gave it a kiss, it would always scream?

Mr. Strachey

I am grateful to the hon. Member for his experience. Seriously, we would very much like to find a more humane method but we are told that there is great difficulty. If the hon. Member will make a suggestion to us, we will consider it.

Sir Waldron Smithers

Will the right hon. Gentleman earmark himself for slaughter?

Mr. Piratin

Will the Minister consult the victims?