§ Sir R. Gowerasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the danger of an outbreak of rabies here resulting from attempts by members of the British and Allied Forces to smuggle dogs and cats into this country, he will co-operate with the R.S.P.C.A. in a Press campaign on this subject both in British papers and papers circulating amongst the Allied Forces.
Mr. HudsonThe need for preventing the smuggling of dogs and cats into Great Britain has already been the subject of discussions with the Service Departments and the Chief of the Veterinary Division of the U.S. Forces in Europe, and steps have recently been taken by the issue of an Army Council Instruction and Admiralty and Air Force Orders to remind all ranks that, except in accordance with the terms of licences issued by the proper authority, the bringing into Great Britain of dogs and cats from abroad is prohibited. Our American Allies have taken similar action to acquaint members of their Forces with the nature of the restrictions. Further publicity may be necessary in order to ensure that all members of the Forces overseas are made aware of the Regulations. That must, of course, be a matter mainly for arrangement with the Service Departments, but I shall be glad to bear in mind this offer of assistance from the R.S.P.C.A.