asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will allow the humane destruction of stray dogs and cats which have been found by the police after four days in place of the seven days now provided, in view of the fact that they are frequently kept in a state of starvation during this period owing to the unavailability of any suitable food.

So far as the Metropolitan police district is concerned, my information is that police stations and dogs homes are at present adequately supplied with food for stray dogs. As regards the provinces, if my hon. Friend can give me particulars of any cases where animals have suffered in the way suggested I will have inquiry made.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that in many cases dogs and cats are already in a state of starvation when found, and that to keep them another week without food is extremely cruel?

If my hon. Friend will give me any particulars of cases I will have them investigated, and the necessary action taken.

Would it not be a dangerous innovation, and involve needless destruction of many valuable pets, if their owners had not time to communicate with the police?

I have made an offer to my hon. Friend the Member for Newport (Mr. Peter Freeman). I am willing to consider most sympathetically, any evidence he can bring before me.