§ 83. Mr. MacKENZIE LIVINGSTONEasked the Secretary for Scotland whether he is aware that the Board of Agriculture for Scotland has recently refused an application from the grazings committee of North Dell, near Stornoway, for the loan of an Ayrshire bull, informing the committee that a Highland bull only could be supplied; and, in view of the fact that the crofters desire to improve the milk supply, whether he will give instructions that an Ayrshire bull is to be lent to the district, the pasture of which is suitable for that stock?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The Board of Agriculture refused the application for an Ayrshire bull because they consider that the land and climatic conditions in Lewis are not suitable for Ayrshire cattle or Ayrshire crosses and because the Ayrshire cross stirks would not be suitable for fattening purposes. In these circumstances, I cannot hold out a prospect that the Board's decision can be reconsidered.
§ Mr. LIVINGSTONEIn view of the fact that the local people, who know best in this matter, do not share that view, will the right hon. Gentleman further inquire into this question?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI have made inquiries into it, and my information is that two of the particular sections of the people in that district have already tried an Ayrshire bull, without success, and have returned it and asked for a Highland bull.
§ Mr. LIVINGSTONEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these bulls have not been tried?