HC Deb 21 March 1911 vol 23 c225
Mr. HUNT

asked the Secretary of State for War whether any place or places have been decided on where farmers can take horses to be inspected by officers buying horses for the Army; and, if so, whether he will have the places and dates advertised in the local papers?

Mr. HALDANE

The reply is in the negative. If anyone collects not less than twelve horses considered suitable for the Army and informs the War Office to this effect, an Army purchaser is sent to inspect with a view to purchase all such horses as he may consider fit for the service.

Mr. HUNT

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are horse sales in various counties? Will he appoint day and place, say, in Shropshire, where farmers can take their horses and where officers could inspect them? It will help very much.

Mr. HALDANE

If the hon. Member's constituents guarantee that there will be enough horses there to make it worth while to go, we are prepared to send, but when we go and find one or two horses it means a long journey for no purpose.

Mr. HUNT

How many horses would the right hon. Gentleman require to be there?

Mr. HALDANE

That is a little like answering the question about the doomed city. I might say twelve horses, and then there might be only six.