§ SIR BLUNDELL MAPLE (Camberwell, Dulwich)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War, whether he can say how much money was paid during the years 1899, 1900, and 1901 for the call on horses in case of war; how many horses were requisitioned and bought; and whether the horses were claimed through the Remount Department; and will he state whether some firms who have received money for some years have had no requisition made upon them.
§ MR. BRODRICKThe sums paid as retaining fees for the financial years 1899, 1900, and 1901 to date, amount to £15,707. The number of registered horses which were requisitioned and bought during this period was 6,350. The horses were claimed through the Remount Department, Some firms who have received retaining fees had no requisition made on them because their horses were not of the stamp required for the special conditions of service in South Africa.
§ SIR BLUNDELL MAPLEAre these horses examined yearly to see whether it is worth the while of the country to pay the requisition fee?
§ MR. BRODRICKYes, Sir; they are.
§ MR. CHARLES HOBHOUSE (Bristol, E.)In what country would these horses be available if they are not available in South Africa?
§ * MR. SPEAKERThat is another Question, and the hon. Member must give notice of it.