HC Deb 22 March 1972 vol 833 cc1498-9
36. Mr. Kinsey

asked the Lord President of the Council if he will introduce cats into the House of Commons to combat the growing numbers of mice.

Mr. Whitelaw

While the introduction of cats might well help in dealing with mice, it would also raise some new problems.

Mr. Kinsey

I am sure that we could cope with the problem of having cats running about the place rather than lots of these small unhygienic creatures whose numbers have been alarming of late. Is my right hon. Friend aware that as the mice now seem to be resistant to poison, cats seem to be the only answer?

Mr. Whitelaw

These matters can, of course, be considered by the House authorities. It is important to appreciate that the introduction of cats would mean, first, that they would have to be fed; secondly, that they would have to be provided in various parts of the building with earth boxes, and thirdly, that they would probably breed, which would create further problems. Indeed, we might find them intruding into various parts of the building where they would not be wanted.