HC Deb 28 March 1911 vol 23 cc1127-8
MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether, as he finds frozen meat, less those parts removed on account of disease, to be of equal nutritive value as fresh-killed meat and to be considerably cheaper, he proposes to supply the British Army with frozen or refrigerated meat on all days of the week instead of upon three only; and, if not, why not?

Colonel SEELY

No, Sir. It is considered that it is in the best interests of the soldier to vary his diet.

MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINE

If it is proved that the British soldier does not want this change and prefers fresh meat grown at home, will the right hon. Gentleman receive a deputation on the subject?

Colonel SEELY

Perhaps the Noble Lord would put a question on the Paper with regard to that.

MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINE

That reply was given by the right hon. Gentleman the Secretary of State for War. May I ask if the only reason why it is bought abroad is because it is cheaper?

Colonel SEELY

Another cause is, as I say, because it is desirable to vary the diet.

MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINE

Am I to understand that we may eliminate the question that it is only on the score of cheapness that the meat is bought abroad, and that is on the score of change?

Colonel SEELY

It is not only on the score of cheapness, but it is most difficult to ensure, even if the change the Noble Lord suggests were made, that the meat should really be bred and fed in these islands.

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