60. Mr. CATHCART WASONasked the President of the Board of Agriculture, whether he is aware of the loss sustained by all parties concerned by the slaughtering of fat cattle at Merklands, and if he will consider if it would be practicable to convey cattle ready for immediate slaughter to their respective destinations in specially prepared trucks?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Runciman)I have received no representations as to losses sustained by reason of the existing requirements of the Board with regard to the slaughter of cattle at Merklands. On the contrary, buyers have expressed their approval of the new arrangements, which have resulted in a substantial improvement of the condition of the cattle at the time of slaughter. I am informed that the loss from bruised beef, which has in the past been considerable, is now practically eliminated. In any case, the removal of cattle from the wharf in the manner suggested would neither be safe nor practicable under existing conditions.
Mr. C. WASONWill the right hon. Gentleman say when store cattle are allowed to travel, why he draws a distinction between store cattle and fat cattle?
§ Mr. KILBRIDEHas the right hon. Gentleman received any representations from Ireland as to the losses incurred by the Irish fat cattle trade owing to these regulations and as to the ring that has been formed against Irish exports?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANThis question applies to Glasgow.
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI can only refer to the differences between the two Orders.