§ MR. DILLONI beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether he can state the method in which the Department of Agriculture proposes to conduct the inquiry into the cause of the mortality amongst calves; whether the inquiry will extend to the effects of separated milk on the quality of the young stock reared in Ireland; whether cattle dealers and practical farmers will be called on to give evidence; and who is to have the conduct of the inquiry.
§ MR. ATKINSONThe method of the investigation so far has boon, in the first place, an inquiry amongst the farmers of the districts chiefly affected, in co-operation with the Limerick County Council; and secondly, a direct investigation by the highest authority procurable on diseases of this nature. The inquiry is at the latter stage now. The Department have placed the direction of the inquiry unreservedly in the hands of Professor Nocard, and it will extend to all questions, including the alleged effects of separated milk, which can throw light on the origin of the disease. The further steps which it may be desirable to take in connection with the whole subject will be decided on when the Department are in possession of Professor Nocard's Report and recommendations. The Department are also undertaking a series of experiments in calf feeding.
§ MR. ATKINSONNo, Sir.