§ MR. J. P. SMITH (Lanark, Partick)I beg to ask the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware that during the last few months, in the 1580 greater number of the cities and towns in the country, the carcasses of animals found to have been affected, however slightly, with tuberculosis are now condemned as unfit for human food, although the scientific inquiry which the Government is now instituting will probably occupy many months; and whether, in view of the fact that under this system the loss to the butchers is the same as if it had been already determined that such meat is harmful as food, the Government will consider the question of compensating the butchers whose carcasses are destroyed before the inquiry has been completed?
DR. FARQUHARSONHas the inquiry mentioned in the question yet been held, and on what lines is it to be carried on?
*MR, RITCHIEI am aware that it has been stated that carcasses of animals affected by tuberculosis are condemned as unfit for human food, although I have no official information on the subject. I am afraid I cannot come under any engagement such as that asked for in the latter portion of the question. As the hon. Gentleman is no doubt aware, the Government are not empowered to award compensation in such cases.