§ Mr. MULDOONasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether it was formerly the custom to allow the police half the fines inflicted in scab sheep prosecutions; why this custom was altered; and whether there is any intention of resuming the practice?
§ Mr. BIRRELLSection 75 of the Diseases of Animals Act, 1894, provides that one-third of any fine recovered under the Act may be awarded to the informer. The law officers having advised in 1900 that the police who prosecute for offences under the Act cannot be regarded as informers within the meaning of the Section, the constabulary were then instructed not to claim or accept any portion of such penalties.