§ Mr. Peter Freemanasked the Minister of Fuel and Power how many cases have been brought to the courts in each year since 1940 for ill-treatment to horses and ponies working in mines; in how many cases have convictions been successful; in how many cases have warnings, fines or imprisonment, respectively been imposed and what action he proposes to take to reduce such cases of cruelty.
§ Mr. Shinwell:The information is as follows:
William Michael Easther, of Eastbourne, passed the first M.B. in all subjects except one; that because of the date of his birthday and the date of the examination he was precluded from sitting again within the prescribed time and age limit; that three months deferment was requested to enable him to qualify but was refused; and whether he will reconsider this case, with a view to recommending his release from the Army to enable him to take this examination.
§ Mr. Isaacs:This man was given three months' postponement in June, 1945, but was then refused further postponement by the Hardship Committee. This decision was confirmed by the Umpire on appeal. I see no grounds for asking for release from the Army.