§ SIR ROBERT ANSTRUTHERsaid, he wished to ask the Vice President of the Council, Whether the Privy Council have received any information as to the working of the Order in Council of May last relating to the supply of Water to Animals when in transit by Rail?
§ MR. W. E. FORSTERSir, there are now upwards of 300 railway stations in Great Britain at which water is provided, and many others are having the necessary works constructed, so as to provide a supply. There are other railway stations at which water has not been provided, especially in Scotland. In addition, 271 local authorities have already been invited by a circular sent round by the veterinary department of the Privy Council Office to suggest other stations, and the remaining 132 will be communicated with in the course of a few days. As the matter is one of some interest, I may read an extract from the Report of Professor Simonds, respecting arrangements made by the Great Eastern Railway, dated July 7, 1870—
With regard to the general question of watering animals, it may be stated that almost every station-master whom I saw during the several days of my inspection spoke of the great advantages of the system and the evident benefit derived by the animals from its adoption. Instead of being restless, as heretofore, when in the pens or the reception yards, many would lie down and quietly rest after having had a supply of water. It was further remarked that dealers and persons who had opposed the introduction of the system had now become its advocates, from having had practical proof of its benefits.