HC Deb 03 April 1919 vol 114 c1389
92. Colonel MILDMAY

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether, in the interests of those who get their livelihood in connection with hunting, he can say whether hunting by packs of hounds under proper control will be allowed next season in Devon and Cornwall as it was during the previous outbreak of rabies?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Sir Arthur Boscawen)

I am afraid I cannot make any statement now as to hunting in Devon and Cornwall next season. The answer must depend on the circumstances in connection with the outbreak of rabies then existing.

Colonel MILDMAY

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the uncertainty as to the future will affect a great number of persons employed, and that the number of packs of hounds in this district is larger than in any other county in England?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

I am quite aware of these considerations, but the stamping out of this outbreak of rabies must have the paramount consideration. I am sorry to say that another case occurred in Devon only last Monday. I cannot possibly make a statement as to what the position may be in the autumn.