HC Deb 30 June 1913 vol 54 cc1460-1
12. Mr. C. BATHURST

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture whether, in view of the admitted failure of the Swine Fever Orders of 1908, the interference with the swine industry involved in such administration, and the expenditure of public money upon both administration and compensation with no apparent result, he proposes to repeal such Orders and abandon the attempt to exterminate the disease by the policy embodied in these Orders?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

As the hon. Member is aware, the subject is being considered by a Departmental Committee, and before making any change in the general policy of the Board, I think it desirable to await the completion of their investigations.

Mr.BATHURST

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this policy has now been five years in operation and that swine fever is much more extensive throughout the country now than it was when this policy was initiated?