HC Deb 19 April 1901 vol 92 cc777-8
MR. LAMBERT (Devonshire, South Molton)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether the military authorities in South Africa have decided to slaughter for food all captured cattle, and whether, if such action is or has been taken, consideration has been given to the importance of keeping a stock of acclimatised cattle in that country, and the cost and loss that would be entailed by restocking with cattle not acclimatised to the country.

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO THE WAR OFFICE (Lord STANLEY,) Lancashire, Westhoughton

The local authorities are alive to the importance of the question, and Government stock farms have been established.

MR. LAMBERT

But have the military authorities decided that the cattle should be slaughtered?

LORD STANLEY

I anticipate that if they are required for food they are slaughtered. I cannot say more.

MR. LAMBERT

Will the noble Lord get the information by Monday?

LORD STANLEY

No, Sir.