HC Deb 17 February 1898 vol 53 cc899-900
MR. WILLIAM FIELD (Dublin, St. Patrick)

I beg to ask the Financial Secretary to the War Office, whether the promised consideration of the subject of foreign supplies to the troops has resulted in any modification of the tenders to reduce the percentage of frozen meat to be supplied; whether he can state the percentage now allowed; and whether the War Office will recommend the appointment of a Select Committee to inquire into and report on the matter?

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO THE WAR OFFICE (Mr. J. POWELL-WILLIAMS,) Birmingham

Certain alterations of the forms of Tender have been made on the suggestion of the Irish meat-producers which may possibly result in an increased supply of home-fed meat, but the authorised percentage of frozen and refrigerated meat remains unchanged. The percentage of frozen meat allowed is one-seventh of the supply. The answer to the last paragraph of the hon. Member's question is in the negative.