§ 47. Mr. Hastingsasked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been called to the large number of rabbits that reach the markets with their legs lacerated by traps; and whether he will institute an inquiry as to the extent of such cruelty and the means by which it can be abated.
§ Sir T. DugdaleThe answer to the first part of the Question is "Yes, Sir". In reply to the second part I would refer the hon. Member to the report of the inquiry recently conducted by the Committee on Cruelty to Wild Animals, whose report is being considered by the Government.
§ Mr. HastingsWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman give careful consideration to the desirability of introducing legislation to prohibit the use of gin traps, which do much of the damage that I have described?
§ Sir T. DugdaleThis question has been given very careful consideration, and experiments are now taking place to ascertain the suitability of an alternative trap.
§ Mr. HastingsIs the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that these experiments have been going on for many years and that the results have been insufficient? Will he accelerate the experiments in which he is now engaged?
§ Sir T. DugdaleYes, Sir, the experiments have not been proved entirely satisfactory.