§ 76. Mr. Rankinasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will inquire into the conditions under which a consignment of battery hens was transported on 2nd May last from Anchalton, near Maybole, to Dacre, near Penrith, so that 2,600 of them had to be slaughtered at the termination of their journey in addition to 140 who had died during transport; and if he will take the steps necessary to see that this type of cruelty is not repeated.
§ Mr. John MackieThe transport of live poultry is covered by the Conveyance of Live Poultry Order. I understand that the occurrence to which the hon. Member refers has been reported to the police and the R.S.P.C.A., so that they can consider if any further action should be taken.