Horses in films
Sir: I hope I am not .t.po late to congratulate Kenneth Robinson on his review, 'Cruelty to critics and horses' (July 5). It is the first time V have ever known a critic mention the falling about on back and neck of horses (I suspect when the fall is on a human there is some offscreen substitution employed). This carelessness of animal life is the reason why I never watch "Westerns."
Few people appear to know that in 1937 the Cinematograph Films (Animals) Act was passed. The first paragraph reads "1. (I) No person shall exhibit to the public, or supply to any person for public exhibition (whether by hime or another person) any cinematograph film (whether produced in Great Britain or elsewhere) if in connection with the production of the film scene represented in the film was organised or directed in such a way as to involve the cruel infliction of pain or terror in any animal or the cruel goading of any animal to fury." There is a second paragraph which would make this letter too long if I quoted it, but will willingly supply it to anyone interested. Later it says, "Inspectors, however, will do well to report the exhibition of any films which appears to contravene its provisions." The quote comes from the RSPCA's 'A legal handbook for Inspectors.' Honor Dewar 3 Ridgeway Court Broadstone, Dorset
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