HC Deb 12 May 1909 vol 4 cc1818-9
Mr. WILLIAM THORNE

asked the hon. Member for South Somerset if he is aware that a number of old worn-out British horses are despatched from this country to Antwerp, and that at the best of times their condition is deplorable; that in fine weather the journey is made in about 23 hours and the food for the journey is not sufficient, and in stormy weather the animals are not only tortured by the tossing about to which they are subjected, but from the lengthening of the voyage by two or three days they are starved by the shortage of food, and that on their arrival at Belgium they suffer the worst of tortures; whether he is aware that at times there are as many as 20 such animals dead and dying On the quays at Antwerp; that they are there examined, and at nightfall are very often without food, but are driven off in batches of 10, 15, 20, or more to abattoirs at Ghent, Tormonde, St. Nicolas, and even Brussels, a distance of 30 miles; and if he intends taking any action in the matter?

Sir E. STRACHEY

The trade in the exportation of horses to Antwerp and other foreign ports has been regulated since 1898 by our Exportation of Horses Order, a copy of which I shall be glad to send my hon. Friend. It prohibits the export of horses that are unfit to travel, it requires vessels in this trade to be properly fitted for the purpose, and it provides for the proper care and feeding of horses on the voyage. The administration of the Order is carried out in this country by the local authorities concerned, and our inspectors make frequent voyages to supervise the traffic; on arrival the horses are landed and moved under the superintendence of officials of the Belgian Government. I am not able to accept as correct my hon. Friend's description of this trade, but if he will be good enough to furnish me with any information in his possession I shall be glad to have inquiry made at once.

Mr. W. THORNE

Will the hon. Gentleman receive a deputation upon the matter?

Captain FABER

Could not the officials of the Board of Agriculture refuse to allow those horses to be conveyed away, as the animals are not in a fit state for the journey, and are in a worn-out condition?

Sir E. STRACHEY

I must have notice of that.

Mr. W. THORNE

If the Belgian buyers do not enter into securities to have the animals properly treated, will the Board of Agriculture order them to be killed at this side?

Sir E. STRACHEY

I must have notice.