§ Mr. HUNTasked the Lord Advocate whether he was aware that the stallion travelled by the Congested Districts Board in Skye had the "hairy heels" of 387 the Clydesdale breed, which is a sure sign of cart-horse blood, causing the stock of such an animal to be less valuable than those with clean fetlocks; and whether he would withdraw that stallion from that district?
§ The SOLICITOR-GENERAL for SCOTLAND (Mr. A. Dewar)I am aware of the fact referred to by the hon. Member, but I am advised that the inference which he draws is not correct. "Hairy heels" are not a sign of Clydesdale breed, but of the absence of Arab blood. It is a characteristic feature of all horses in cold, damp areas. It appears in the native breeds of Noxth-Western Europe, and is always found in the "Highland Garron," the horse which thrives beat and has been found most useful in Highland districts. The Congested Districts Board do not intend to withdraw the stallion.
§ Mr. HUNTIs the hon. Gentleman aware that what he is pleased to call the "hairy heel" of the "Highland Garron" is quite different from the "hairy heel" of the Clydesdale breed?
§ Mr. A. DEWARI am aware that there are various kinds of "hairy heels," but the particular "hairy heel" of the "Highland Garron" is desirable, and even necessary, in the colder climate. It is supposed to be, and indeed is, an admirable provision of nature to preserve the hoofs of the animals in the cold weather.
§ Mr. HUNTIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the animal provided by the Congested Districts Board has the wrong sort of "hairy heel"?
§ Mr. A. DEWARIf the hon. Member will give notice of the question I will inquire as to the precise character of the heels.