§ 31. Mr. FELLasked the Under-Secretary of State for War if his attention has been called to the sum paid to licence holders for billeting horses when compared with the sum paid to others for the same accommodation; if the sum of 1s. 9d. per day paid at present prices of feeding stuff does not represent a loss, why the ordinary rate of 2s. 7½d. for the same should not be paid to them; and if he will take steps in the matter?
Mr. BAKERThe statutory rate of 1s. 9d. covers the cost of forage supplied by a licence holder. The position of a private occupier with regard to billeting is altogether different, and this is recognised by a higher rate.
§ Mr. FELLIs it suggested that it costs a licensed victualler 10½d. less to keep a horse than an ordinary individual; if that is not so, is this not an indirect war tax, in addition to the other taxes upon the licensed victualler?
Mr. BAKERNo, Sir, I do not think that that is so. If the hon. Gentleman will put himself in the position of a private occupier I think he will see that that is not the case, as the billeting of the horses causes to the private occupier considerably more inconvenience, expense, and disturbance.