Sir GILBERT PARKERasked if the Government considered that Section 1 of the Older of the Board of Agriculture of 25th November, 1898, adequately dealt with the exportation of unfit horses; whether they could see their way to prohibit the exportation of all horses which, by reason of age, infirmity, illness, or injury, would be unfit for work in a foreign country, and must, therefore, be killed; and whether they would make it compulsory that such horses, when sold in this country, should be slaughtered on or near the premises where they were purchased?
§ Sir E. STRACHEYThe Board are satisfied that the Order gives to local authorities powers to deal adequately with the exportation of horses which cannot be conveyed without cruelty on the intended passage and on landing. They are advised that their statutory powers do not enable them to make such orders as would be necessary to carry into effect the proposals suggested in the second and third paragraphs of the question.
Sir GILBERT PARKERWill the Government support a Bill if one is introduced dealing with the subject?
§ Sir E. STRACHEYI must ask for notice of that.
§ Sir FRANCIS CHANNINGHave not the Board of Agriculture appointed additional veterinary inspectors to report on these horses in order that prosecutions may be undertaken if necessary?
§ Sir E. STRACHEYAdditional inspectors have been appointed further to safeguard the treatment of these horses.