HC Deb 24 June 1948 vol 452 cc1540-1
16. Mr. Janner

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department the number of prosecutions for cruelty to animals undertaken by the police under the Performing Animals (Regulation) Act, 1925, since its coming into force.

Mr. Ede

I regret that it is not possible to give these figures. A special investigation in respect of three recent years (1941, 1943 and 1945) has, however, shown that there is no record of any prosecution having, been taken under this Act during those years.

Mr. Janner

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the anxiety in the country about this particular type of proceeding, and will he at least keep a vigilant eye on any offences which are committed?

Mr. Ede

I will see that the police are advised to do their duty, but I am not prepared to ask the police to undertake prosecutions merely for the sake of proving they can do so.