§ 65. Mr. FELLasked the President of the Board of Trade if the traffic in worn-out horses, which used to be confined to their export to Holland and Belgium, is now being transferred to France; and, if so, from what ports are the horses being shipped and to what French ports are they sent?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANDuring last year about 500 horses were exported from Great Britain to France for slaughter. They were shipped from London and Goole, and a few from Southampton, and were landed mostly at Havre and Boulogne.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether there is any assurance that these horses are humanely treated on their arrival?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANNo, Sir. I do not know that any declaration is necessarily made on this side.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTHas the Government any information of what becomes of these worn-out horses when they go abroad?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANOnce they get to the other side they are no longer within our jurisdiction, but we look after them while they are under our jurisdiction.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTMay I ask whether all those horses when shipped pass under the eye of the inspector of the Board?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI should like to have notice of this; but I think that is so.