§ Bill read 3a (according to Order).
§ Amendments agreed to.
§ LORD JAMES OF HEREFORDThe promoters of this Bill gave a pledge in the memorandum to the Bill that it should not affect any legitimate sport, such as hunting or coursing, and I was under the impression when I read the Bill that it carried out their intention. I consulted two of my learned colleagues in this House and they agreed with me; but the question was raised in the Standing Committee, and my attention was called to the fact that the Law Officers of the Crown were of opinion that it might be contended that stag hunting or rabbit coursing was included. The object of my Amendment is to remove any doubt on. the subject.
§
Amendment moved—
In Clause 4, line 26, after '1876' to insert 'nor to the hunting or coursing of any animal which has not been liberated in a mutilated or injured state in order to facilitate its capture or destruction.'"—(Lord James of Hereford.)
THE EARL OF CORKI am glad that my noble and learned friend has moved to insert these words, because there are very grave doubts whether the Bill in its-present form would not put an end to rabbit coursing, a sport of which I am not enamoured, but one which affords much pleasure to many individuals. I am certain those who pursue this sport will thank the noble and learned Lord for his Amendment, and will do everything they possibly can to prevent in future any cruelty being done to these animals.
§ Amendment agreed to.
§
Amendment moved—
To insert as a new clause, 'This Act shall not extend to Scotland.' "—(Lord James of Hereford.)
§ Amendment agreed to.
§ Bill passed, and returned to the Commons.