HC Deb 24 June 1971 vol 819 cc1575-6
17. Dr. Gilbert

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will seek powers to enable him to make regulations regarding the custody and feeding of captive whales.

Mr. Carlisle

My right hon. Friend has no information to suggest that legislation for this purpose is needed.

Dr. Gilbert

Has the hon. and learned Gentleman's attention been drawn to the recent unruly conduct of a certain male whale in my constituency which resulted in a grown man being dragged unconscious to the bottom of a pool in Dudley Zoo and having to spend three days in hospital? Does he realise that with the spread of dolphinariums and such things throughout the country it is essential for the protection of small children that there is adequate supervision of the animals and that the possibility of danger to the public is limited?

Mr. Carlisle

I am aware of the case to which the hon. Gentleman has referred, but legislation would not have any effect in this sphere.