HC Deb 31 March 1909 vol 3 c332
Mr. STANIER

asked the hon. Member for South Somerset, as representing the President of the Board of Agriculture, what branch of the Government service is paying for the cost of obtaining the census of the horses suitable for the Army; and what is the estimated cost of obtaining the census?

Sir E. STRACHEY

In the case of each census of horses suitable for Army purposes that is being made by a county association the cost will fall on Army funds. The, Board themselves are obtaining information as to the class and breed of horses kept on the land and the cost of this inquiry will be defrayed out of the provision made for the Census of Production Act, but it is being carried out in connection with a number of other inquiries, and its cost cannot be separately estimated.

Mr. STAINER

May I ask whether the owners of agricultural horses are asked for returns, as well as the owners of other horses?

Sir E. STRACHEY

I believe so.

Captain CRAIG

What course is to be pursued in Ireland, where there are no associations?

Sir E. STRACHEY

I cannot tell you what is happening in Ireland.

Captain CRAIG

Can you tell me to whom I should address the question?

Sir E. STRACHEY

The Vice-President of the Board of Agriculture in Ireland.