HC Deb 26 November 1912 vol 44 cc1004-5
52. Mr. PATRICK WHITE

asked the Prime Minister whether, having regard to the statements made to him recently by a deputation of Scotch importers of Irish cattle and to repeated statements made by Irish stock-raisers as to dependence of the one upon the other for the successful prosecution of their respective shares in presenting finished fat cattle to the British consumer, and to the general views expressed by the spokesmen of the deputation that the rules applicable to England should not be denied to Ireland, he will now consider the advisability of appointing a Select Committee of this House to take evidence from experienced agriculturists, and report as to what permanent regulations should exist governing the transit of cattle from one country to the other in the event of an outbreak of disease in either?

The PRIME MINISTER

The responsibility of regulating the transit of cattle between Ireland and Great Britain when disease exists in either country ought, in my opinion, to be left to the Departments concerned. I do not think that any advantage would be gained by the appointment of a Select Committee.

Mr. PATRICK WHITE

What will happen if (he Departments concerned fail to agree between themselves as to what is the proper course to adopt?

The PRIME MINISTER

It will then be decided by the Cabinet.

Mr. C. BATHURST

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a very strong feeling amongst British agriculturists that there should be some Committee in order to facilitate co-operation between the two Departments?

The PRIME MINISTER

Does the hon. Member mean a Committee of this House?

Mr. C. BATHURST

A Select Committee, not necessarily of this House, but preferably.

The PRIME MINISTER

Perhaps the hon. Member will put down a question independently.