HC Deb 15 September 1909 vol 10 cc2148-9
Lord BALCARRES (for Major Anstruther-Gray)

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can give the actual number of horses now allowed to be cast per annum per squadron and per battery respectively?

Mr. HALDANE

In the cavalry 27 per regiment of Household Cavalry and 51 per regiment of the line are allowed to be cast, i.e., 10 per cent. of the establishment. In the Artillery the same percentage is allowed—in the Horse Artillery 13 per battery of higher establishment, and 9 of lower establishment, and in the Field Artillery 9 per battery of higher establishment and 6 of lower establishment. In each case the numbers allowed to be cast are diminished by the number of deaths occurring during the financial year.

Mr. ARTHUR LEE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that on this very low standard of casting horses may be retained in the batteries for thirty years?

Mr. HALDANE

I should like to have notice of that question.

Lord BALCARRES (for Major Anstruther-Gray)

asked how many horses in the Household Cavalry, the cavalry of the line, the Royal Horse Artillery, and the Royal Field Artillery, respectively, are 14 years of age and upwards?

Mr. HALDANE

The figures are as follows: Household Cavalry, 147; cavalry of the line, 591; Royal Horse Artillery, 238; Royal Field Artillery, 1,755.

Sir SAMUEL SCOTT

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider horses of 14 years are fit for active service?

Mr. HALDANE

I myself have not had much experience of these things, but I have known excellent horses of the age of 14.

Mr. ARTHUR LEE

Is there any Regulation in the War Office as to the age of horses which must not be sent out of the country in case of war?

Mr. HALDANE

I rather think not, but if the hon. Gentleman will put a question down I will inquire.