HC Deb 10 August 1914 vol 65 cc2262-3
Mr. MACMASTER

I beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for War whether it is possible to relax the rigour of the instructions with regard to commandeering horses in the agricultural districts where horses at this season of the year are urgently required?

Mr. TENNANT

I have already informed the House that under the Order not more than 50 per cent. of the horses may be taken, and in cases where harvesting is proceeding the greatest relaxation is to be used where possible.

Mr. STANIER

Has the right hon. Gentleman made this widely known throughout the English districts, because, yesterday, farmers were being asked for the whole of their horses?

Mr. TENNANT

Yes, I can certainly say that was a mistake. In any case which the hon. Member will bring to my notice I will see that reparation is made.

Mr. RUPERT GWYNNE

What remedy will there be if an undue number of horses are taken?

Mr. TENNANT

The only thing we can do is to give back the horses, if the circumstances will admit of that being done.