HC Deb 04 July 1899 vol 73 cc1415-6
MR. FIELD

I beg to ask the President of the Board of Agriculture whether he is aware that the steamship "J. W. Taylor" which was black-listed on 10th February, 1899, arrived at Deptford on 4th January, 1899, and reported loss of 130 bullocks out of 150 shipped, and loss of 740 sheep out of 1,079 shipped; and whether it is intended that in future an expert outside those having any interest in the vessels shall give a certificate before the prohibition is removed.

THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE (Mr. LONG,) Liverpool, West Derby

The facts are as stated in the first paragraph of the hon. Member's question. We do not contemplate any change in our existing procedure in regard to these cases.

MR. FIELD

Is it a fact that the restrictions have been removed from this vessel, and that it is now free to carry cattle?

MR. LONG

I told the hon. Gentleman so a fortnight ago.

MR. FIELD

This is another vessel. MR. LONG: No, no.

MR. FIELD

Yes.

Mr. LONG

I think the hon. Member referred to both vessels in his previous question. Both were dealt with at the same time and for the same reason.

MR. FIELD

Am I to understand that all the restrictions have been removed from all vessels that were black-listed?

MR. SPEAKER

Order, order!

MR. FIELD

I will put another question on this.

MR. WILLIAM ALLAN (Gateshead)

Is it a fact that the owners of these steamers have given guarantees as to the suitability of their vessels to carry cattle from the Argentine?

MR. LONG

Yes, Sir; or the restrictions would not have been removed. They have given the guarantees, and have undertaken to conform to the requirements of the Department.