§ 60. Mr. Bossomasked the Minister of Food how many cattle markets are under the supervision of each inspector; and if he is satisfied that no avoidable cruelty is inflicted.
§ Dr. SummerskillThe enforcement of the law relating to cruelty to animals is a matter for the police, but I am satisfied that all our officials are concerned to ensure that the animals for which they are responsible are properly handled. The Government buyer in charge of each collecting centre is a livestock auctioneer, and the grading of the stock is supervised by 42 inspectors, who are each responsible for from 20 to 66 centres. There are also three headquarters inspectors who visit the centres as may be required.
§ Mr. BossomCan the Minister state how often the inspector visits each of these points?
§ Dr. SummerskillI have to remind the hon. Member that many of these points are opened only once a fortnight, or once a month. I believe there is one inspector in charge of 66 centres; 35 of these centres operate once a fortnight, and 10 operate once a month.
§ Mr. BossomCan the Minister say how many of these markets are opened only once a fortnight?
§ Dr. SummerskillIf the hon. Gentleman puts down a Question I will tell him.