§ Mr. Corbettasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) whether he is satisfied that there are sufficient powers and with the level of penalty under the Cruelty to Animals Act 1911 to prosecute those attempting to organise bullfighting aimed either at killing the bull or for exhibition purposes;
(2) whether he is satisfied with the effectiveness of current legislation under which bullfighting, either aimed at killing the bull or for exhibition purposes, is illegal in England and Wales and with the level of penalties for those convicted of offences.
§ Mr. MellorYes. The Protection of Animals Act 1911 makes it an offence to infuriate, terrify, bait or cause unnecessary suffering to a bull or to keep or permit the use of premises for bull fighting or baiting. It is irrelevant for the purposes of the Act whether the intention is to kill the bull or merely to fight it as an exhibition. It is also an offence under the Protection of Animals Act 1934 to promote or permit a public performance which includes wrestling, fighting or struggling with an untrained bull or to ride a bull which has been cruelly stimulated to make it buck. The maximum penalty on conviction is £500 and 3 months' imprisonment.