HC Deb 04 June 1918 vol 106 cc1401-2
37. Mr. PENNEFATHER

asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been drawn to an analysis, made on behalf of the National Equine Defence League, of an alleged horse food mixture to the effect that the sample submitted was absolutely useless and would be a starvation diet for horses; and what steps can be taken to ensure that the rations for heavy equine workers shall be not only adequate in quantity but also in quality?

Mr. WARDLE

The Order of the Ministry of Food, dated 17th November, 1917, provides that the composition of horse chaff mixtures shall contain not less than a fixed proportion of grain, seed, pulse, locust beans, and products thereof, and, in view of complaints recently received, special steps are at present being taken by the Ministry of Food to ensure that the terms of the Order are being complied with.

Sir J. BUTCHER

Has the hon. Gentleman any inspectors who are appointed to secure that these horse mixtures are of proper quality and that the penalty for their not being so is enforceable?

Mr. WARDLE

I must have notice of that question.