§ 9. Mr. DICKSONasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that the continued existence of the scrub bull is leading to serious deterioration of farm stock in Scotland; whether he is aware that other countries are eliminating the scrub bull; and whether, in view of the general agreement among the agricultural interests that the time is ripe for legislation on the subject, he proposes to take any steps to introduce a Bill dealing with this subject during the present Session?
Mr. W. ADAMSONI am advised that serious deterioration of a proportion of the cattle in Scotland is attributable to the use of "scrub" bulls and that in certain countries steps have been taken by legislation to eliminate such bulls am entirely in sympathy with these representations but, in view of the state of Parliamentary business, I cannot promise legislation at present. If, however, a Bill of this nature proved to be non-controversial its chances would, of course, be increased.
§ Sir NICHOLAS GRATTAN-DOYLEWhat is a scrub bull?
§ Mr. DICKSONSurely the hon. Member ought to be aware that a scrub bull is a masculine cow whose parentage will not be found in Debrett.