HC Deb 25 April 1917 vol 92 cc2381-2
36. Mr. PARTINGTON

asked how many racehorses the Government have in training; whether the full oat ration of a single horse suffices to support twenty to thirty human beings; and if the Government propose to keep their horses in training in view of the shortage of food for human beings?

Sir R. WINFREY

The Government have no racehorses which they themselves keep in training, though six of their horses are at present leased to Lord Lonsdale for racing purposes, the expenses of which he defrays. Therefore the last part of the question does not arise.

Mr. PARTINGTON

In those circumstances they will consume just the same, I suppose?

Sir R. WINFREY

Yes, I suppose so.

Admiral of the Fleet Sir H. MEUX

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether the proposal of the hon. Member is quite as futile as that of his distinguished ancestor, who proposed to stop the Atlantic by a mop?