HC Deb 23 February 1932 vol 262 cc199-200
33. Mr. DREWE

asked the President of the Board of Trade the number of horses imported during 1930 and 1931, respectively, stating the number from Empire sources and foreign countries?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The total number of horses (including ponies) imported into the United Kingdom during the year 1930, consigned from British countries (mostly from the Irish Free State) was 9,856, and from foreign countries 2,022. The corresponding figures for 1931 were 9,981 and 1,973, respectively.

Mr. DREWE

In view of the present conditions of the horse-breeding industry in this country, does my right hon. Friend think it is still necessary to import horses from foreign countries?