HC Deb 31 July 1905 vol 150 cc927-8
MR. CULLINAN (Tipperary, S.)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that South African disease has been imported into Ireland through the transfer of Army horses; and, if so, whether he will have a full inquiry made into the circumstances so as to place the responsibility on the persons through whose negligence loss has been sustained by Irish horse breeders and promoters of race meetings and shows.

MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

The introduction of the disease of epizootic lymphangitis, which is not peculiar to South Africa, may have been due to Army horses. There was, however, no reason to suppose that the horses were infected when they left South Africa or when they arrived in England. The period of incubation is a very long one. It does not, therefore, appear that the suggested inquiry would serve any good purpose.

MR. CULLINAN

As this very serious disease has been imported into Ireland by Army horses through the negligence of the authorities, with the result that horses have died, stables have been closed, and race and other meetings stopped, will the Government compensate the people for the losses they have thereby sustained?

MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

I cannot admit the accuracy of the hon. Member's assertions.

MR. POWER (Waterford, E.)

In how many districts in Great Britain has it appeared?

MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

In several. I cannot say how many.