§ Sir R. GOWERasked the Minister of Health whether he will consider the 940W desirability of issuing a circular to local authorities urging them to frame bylaws making the use of the humane killer for the slaughter of animals in their respective districts compulsory?
§ Miss LAWRENCEAs my right hon. Friend promised when answering the same question put by the hon. Member last July, he has considered the suggestion, but does not consider the present time opportune for a circular.
Lieut.-Colonel MOOREasked the Minister of Health the total number of local authorities in England and Wales who have adopted the Ministry's model bylaw 9b, in regard to the humane slaughter of animals, up to 31st January?
§ Miss LAWRENCEThe number is 349.
Lieut.-Colonel MOOREasked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of local authorities in Scotland who have adopted the Ministry of Health's model bylaw 9b, in regard to the slaughter of pigs, up to 31st January?
Mr. W. ADAMSONFive Scottish local authorities have bylaws on the lines of the model bylaw referred to; in only one of these is there a specific reference to swine, the others applying to all animals slaughtered. Of these, two definitely require the use of a mechanically operated instrument and three make use of a slightly different form of words which in effect renders the use of a mechanically operated instrument obligatory. Other local authorities have bylaws specifying that animals shall be rendered unconscious in the most humane manner and by such means as the town council may from time to time prescribe. It is, therefore, possible that in such cases the use of a mechanically operated instrument is also required.