HC Deb 23 June 1966 vol 730 c902
35. Mr. Heffer

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will introduce legislation which will ban live hare coursing, especially the Waterloo Cup; and if he will make a statement.

Miss Bacon

A review of field sports is being made in consultation with other Ministers concerned. Pending its completion, my right hon. Friend is not in a position to make a statement.

Mr. Heffer

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that this type of so-called sport is regarded as a barbarous practice by many people, who feel that it is high time that it was brought under control? Will she reconsider the matter and bring in early legislation?

Miss Bacon

I share my hon. Friend's point of view on this. We are consulting my right hon. Friends the Minister of Agriculture, the Secretaries of State for Scotland and Wales and the Minister of Land and Natural Resources. I cannot promise legislation but I do understand the point of view my hon. Friend has put forward.