HL Deb 23 November 1977 vol 387 c851

2.49 p.m.

Lord HOUGHTON of SOWERBY

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government when they propose to reintroduce the Hare Coursing Bill to make hare coursing matches illegal.

Lord WELLS-PESTELL

At a suitable opportunity, my Lords.

Lord HOUGHTON of SOWERBY

My Lords, is my noble friend aware that I discern a note of reassurance in that reply, and does he think that the suitable opportunity might be brought forward a little if a Bill were introduced by a Private Member in either House?

Lord WELLS-PESTELL

My Lords, it was not mentioned in the Queen's Speech because the Queen's Speech included only items for which the Government felt they could find time. But I ought to say that the Government are committed to legislation on this matter, and I think I can say that there is a Bill available if any Member of your Lordships' House or another place cares to use it as a Private Member's Bill.