§ MR. HORACE PLUNKETT (Dublin Co., S.)I beg to ask the Under Secretary for War, if he can state the number and average price of horses which have been bought in Ireland for Army purposes during the last two years; how many of these were bought direct from the breeders or owners; and how many through contractors.
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO THE WAR OFFICE (Mr. J. POWELL-WILLIAMS,) Birmingham, S.In the twenty-six months ended on the 31st May, 278 horses were purchased in Ireland for Army purposes from private owners and 1,718 from dealers. None were bought through contractors. At page 46 of the Army Estimates, the hon. Member will find the estimated purchase price, throughout the United Kingdom and Colonies, of horses required for the Army according to their several classes.