§ Mr. CHARLES BATHURSTasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture (1), whether the Board is aware that unless the embargo upon the importation of British cattle into Argentina is removed so as to admit of such cattle being shipped from Great Britain not later than the end of July, the whole of this year's trade in pedigree cattle with that country will be lost; and, if so, what action is the Board taking in the matter; and (2), whether any diplomatic representations have been made direct to the Argentine Government with a view to the removal of the restrictions on the importation of British live stock imposed in consequence of the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Surrey three months ago; and, if so, with what result?
§ Sir E. STRACHEYThe Board are in communication with the Argentine Government as to this matter, and hope to receive a reply in the course of a few days.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTIs not it a fact that the Board communicated with the Argentine Government on this matter three months ago, and have they received no definite reply since? The matter is one of enormous importance to stock owners.
§ Sir E. STRACHEYAs the hon. Member is aware, the Board do not communicate directly. They carry on communications through the Foreign Office.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTHas no reply been received from the Foreign Office?
§ Sir E. STRACHEYNot so far; no definite reply.