§ 21. Mr. ERSKINEasked the Secretary of State for War whether an offer has been received from a shipowner offering to transport a minimum of 10,000 horses from Beirut to France, England, or Belgium, at an inclusive charge of £25 per head; and whether in the interests of economy and humanity, that offer will be accepted forthwith?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSA letter has been received and further inquiries are being made.
§ Mr. LAWSONDo I understand that serious consideration is being given to this offer which means a cost of £250,000? Is that the interests of humanity or the shipowner?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON - EVANSSerious consideration is being given to this question, and both the humane and economic considerations will be taken 1072 into account. If it is humane and economic to accent this offer, it ought to be accepted.
§ Major Sir B. FALLEWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of taking them to India instead of bringing them to Europe?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI cannot make any statement to-day. This offer is to bring horses from Beirut which is 1,100 miles from where the horses are, and on the face of it we could not possibly accept it. I am making inquiries to see if a nearer port could be obtained.