§ 31. Miss Quennellasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he intends to implement the provisions of the Slaughter of Poultry Act 1967.
§ Mr. John MackieOur veterinary staff have almost completed a detailed inspection of poultry slaughterhouses where stunning devices are in use, and 1285 my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Scotland, and my right hon. Friend hopes to be able to lay an Order bringing the Act into operation during this session.
§ Miss QuennellDoes the hon. Gentleman realise that that is rather a disquieting Answer? What is the use of this House putting legislation on the Statute Book for the welfare of these wretched creatures when the Ministry takes so long to operate the provisions of the legislation?
§ Mr. MackieThe hon. Lady must remember that we had between 200 and 300 slaughter houses to visit and examine these matters. Looking at the whole matter of the slaughter of poultry, it is very easy when one is, as it were, on the other side of the question, but when one has to do the job, the delay does not seem quite so long.