HC Deb 09 February 1956 vol 548 cc204-5W
44. Mr. Chapman

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is aware that the Slaughter of Animals (Prevention of Cruelty) (No. 2) Regulations, 1954, are obscurely drafted in not making it clear whether the police or the local authorities are enabled to institute proceedings in cases arising under them; and if he will amend the Regulations so as to make it clear that the police have a responsibility for enforcement.

Mr. Amory

I am advised that it would be inappropriate to declare in the Regulations that any particular persons or classes of persons may institute proceedings since as the law stands anybody may do so. I cannot make the amendment suggested in the second part of the Question as I have no power to place a responsibility for enforcement on the police, but I hope that this reply will help to remove any misunderstanding.

Mr. G. Longden

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware that the Provision for the Slaughter of Animals (Prevention of Cruelty) Regulations, 1954, are not being complied with by local authorities; and if he will take action in this regard.

Mr. Amory

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave on 26th January to the hon. Member for Oldbury and Halesowen (Mr. Moyle).