§ MR. FIELDTo ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that, some time since, unfounded allegations were made respecting the prevalence of tuberculosis amongst Irish cattle, mainly cows; whether he is aware that those allegations have been disproved; whether, in conjunction with and the co-operation of the Board of Agriculture of Great Britain and the Department of Agriculture in Ireland, he will inquire into and prevent the practice of certain dealers purchasing English cattle and selling them as Irish on account; of the superior healthy character of Irish cattle; and whether he will consult with the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture in Ireland and the President of the Board of Agriculture of Great Britain, and have an arrangement made, that the Irish national trade mark shall be branded on all cattle exported from Ireland.
(Answered by Mr. Birrell.) The Department of Agriculture are aware that currency was given some time ago to a statement that tuberculosis is prevalent among Irish cattle. This statement appears to have expressed the personal opinion of its author. Tuberculosis is not scheduled under the Diseases of Animals Acts, and no comprehensive statistics are therefore available. The Department, however, are not aware of any reliable evidence which would go to support the statement referred to. The general reputation of Irish cattle as to healthiness is undoubtedly high. Inquiries are being made as to the alleged practice mentioned in the second part of the Question, and when the result of these inquiries is known, the Department will be in a position to consider what action can be taken in the matter.