§ Sir R. GOWERasked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the recent conviction by the Kingston County Magistrates of Arthur George Richardson, for causing unnecessary suffering to a dog by starving it; and whether, having regard to the circumstances that a fine of £3 only was imposed, he will consider the advisability of increasing the minimum penalty for such cases?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI have seen Press reports of the case. I could not propose legislation fixing a minimum penalty and depriving Courts of their present discretion.