HC Deb 02 April 1914 vol 60 cc1350-1
80. Mr. STANIER

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture if he can give the amount of hay and straw imported into this country this year, with the corresponding amount last year; and if he can say from what countries it is being sent?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Runciman)

The quantities of hay and straw received in the first three months of 1913 and 1914, respectively, were as follows:

1913. 1914.
Tons. Tons.
Hay 21,699 4,506
Straw 1,346 555
The hay imports came in 1913 from Sweden, Norway, Canada, and the United States, and in 1914 from Norway, Sweden, and Canada. The straw imports came from Sweden, Norway, Belgium, and the Netherlands in each year.

Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

Does that include the imports for the military?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

As far as I know, it includes all imports.

Mr. C. BATHURST

Is the right hon. Gentleman cognisant that there is no foot-and-mouth disease in any of those countries from which hay or straw is being imported?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

That is our information.