§ Mr. Peter Lloydasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will summarise the legal restrictions on animal snares and traps; and if he is satisfied that these restrictions are sufficient to eliminate cruelty and unnecessary suffering.
§ Mr. RaisonThis reply relates to England and Wales. Snares are not restricted. Section 10 of the Protection of Animals Act 1911 requires daily inspection of spring traps set for catching hares and rabbits. Section 8 of the Pests Act 1954 restricts the use of traps to those approved by the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. The Spring Traps Approval Order 1975 specifies the approved traps and the conditions in which they may be used. We have no plans for further legislation.