HC Deb 28 April 1978 vol 948 c703W
Mr. Ronald Atkins

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if the 14 Home Office inspectors under the Cruelty to Animals Act 1876 all have veterinary qualifications.

Dr. Summerskill

Seven have veterinary qualifications. The other inspectors have medical qualifications.

Mr. Lomas

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many dogs were debarked before being used in experimental procedures under the Cruelty to Animals Act 1876, during the years from 1970 to the latest possible date.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

Detailed information is not available. My inspectors, however, advise against this practice and there is no evidence that it occurs on any scale, if at all.

Mr. Lomas

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what training is given to a Home Office inspector before he is appointed under the Cruelty to Animals Act 1876.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

All candidates for appointment to the Inspectorate are required to have recognised medical or veterinary qualifications and experience.