HC Deb 29 January 1953 vol 510 cc141-2W
75. Mr. H. Johnson

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether, having regard to recent cases of cruelty to animals, he will consider taking steps to increase the penalties which may be imposed in the magistrates courts upon those who are convicted of cruelty to animals.

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

The law provides for a maximum penalty of three months' imprisonment either in addition, or as an alternative, to a fine of £25. Where the owner of an animal is convicted of cruelty to it a court has power to de- prive him of ownership. I have no reason to think that these maximum penalties are not adequate.