§ MR. BOWERMAN (Deptford)I beg to ask the hon. Member for South Somerset, as representing the President of the Board of Agriculture, whether he is aware that, although on two market days during the past month there was a large number of cattle in the lairages at the Deptford Market, and that many English buyers were present, no markets were held; whether he is aware that the withholding of such cattle from sale was a breach of the regulations governing Deptford Market; and, if so, can he state what steps the Board propose to take in the matter.
§ THE TREASURER OP THE HOUSE-HOLD (Sir EDWABD STRACHEY,) Somerset, S.The Board are informed that no animals were exposed for sale at Deptford Market on five of the accustomed market days in June, but, so far as can be ascertained, it is not the case that many, or indeed any, English buyers were present on those days. No breach of the regulations is committed by the withholding of cattle from sale, and animals may be bought and sold on other than market days.
§ MR. BOWERMANAm I to understand that American or other firms may come to this country and take possession of one of our markets, and refuse to I submit cattle for sale so that English traders shall not have the benefit of the market?
§ SIR EDWARD STRACHEYAmerican, no more than any other dealers, can be forced to sell cattle if they do not wish to do so, on a particular day.