HC Deb 28 July 1906 vol 162 c209
MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAY (St. Andrews Burghs)

I beg to ask the secretary of State for War whether, in view of the increase of motor traffic and the decrease of the number of horses fit for military purposes in time of war, the Government will consider the advisability of forming breeding establishments, such as are in general use in Austria-Hungary, Germany, France, and other countries.

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. HALDANE,) Haddington

At present the War Office is able to procure without difficulty all the horses necessary for peace establishments, and in the event of war in the near future, it is believed that arrangements could be made to supply the animals that would be required. The formation and maintenance of horse-breeding establishments, such as exist in some other European countries, would entail a large initial and annual outlay, which present conditions do not justify.