HC Deb 23 November 1916 vol 87 cc1560-1
45. Mr. O'SHAUGHNESSY

asked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) whether he is aware that complaints are being made by traders that there is a serious wastage of food due to the careless handling in transit of eggs sent from various parts of Ireland to England; and whether he will take steps to see that on the Irish railways and on the boats boxes of eggs will be properly handled?

Mr. DUKE

The Department of Agriculture in Ireland have received several complaints as to the damaged condition of consignments of Irish eggs on arrival at their destination in England. Railway stations and ports in Ireland are visited by the Department's transit inspectors, and action is taken in regard to any cases of carelessness in handling which come under notice.

Mr. O'SHAUGHNESSY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the railway companies bringing eggs from the Continent have made special provisions for this traffic by having special carriages, and will he see that the same is done on the Irish side?

Mr. DUKE

If the hon. Member brings the matter to the attention of the Department of Agriculture for Ireland I am sure that it will receive careful attention.

Mr. DEVLIN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this Department hardly ever answers letters?

Mr. DUKE

I do not know what it does in reference to correspondence. I know that it is very active in regard to agriculture.

Mr. DEVLIN

Not about broken eggs.