CASTING OF BEASTS FOR JEWISH SLAUGHTER [To the Editor of
the SPECTATOR.]
Sin,—As a pork and beef butcher with thirty years' experience of live stock and one who has followed the progress of Mr. Weinberg's casting pen from its infancy, I am astounded to read a most inaccurate statement made by Mr. Emanuel in your issue of October 22nd.
In May, 1924, Mr. Weinberg told me of his woes, inasmuch as he could not get the Shechita Board to test the machine in London, nor would they come to Leeds to see it at his expense. I placed my slaughter-house at his disposal and the animals that were killed were quite successfully cast; considering the machine was only in its early stages and made of soft wood. One bull weighing 151 cwts. and very vigorous was also well done, and Rabbi Simon of this city reported the fact in the Jewish Chronicle.
In November of that year Mr. Weinberg took the machine to London. After his demonstration the machine came back to my yard and I examined it thoroughly to see the cause of the bent side, and to advise him regarding improvements in the new machine. I may say that I found on examination no straps of any kind. Neither was there any rending of wood; as it was the two hinges that got bent on the side made of light iron. The pen should have been revolved on the other side, which contained four hinges capable of supporting a ton weight. Perhaps Mr. Emanuel consulted Mr. Weinberg's patent specification, where straps are mentioned, although they were never used in practice. As an Englishman I admire Mr. Weinberg's pluck and perseverance.
The RS.P.C.A. are gradually gaining ground in forcing us butchers to adopt new methods of slaughter from which the Jews are exempt. At least they should alter their method of casting.—I am, Sir, &c., E. MASON, President-elect, Leeds and District Pork Butchers' Association.
73 and 89 Meadow Road, Leeds.
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