§ 11. Mr. HENDERSON STEWARTasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the losses of Scottish farmers from grass sickness among horses; that large numbers of animals have died in recent weeks; that effective measures to deal with the disease are handicapped by lack of funds and skilled veterinary services; and 1846 whether he will take immediate steps to make available the best veterinary skill in, order to stamp out the disease?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI would refer to the reply given on 30th June to the question on this subject by the hon. Member for Banffshire (Sir E. Findlay) of which I am sending a copy to my hon. Friend. The spread of this disease is a matter of no little concern, and the possibility of undertaking a more extensive investigation into the problem is under consideration.
§ Mr. MAXTONHas not this trouble developed since the right hon. Gentleman withdrew the grant from the Veterinary College?
§ Sir G. COLLINSNo, it has been going on for 10 years.
§ Mr. MAXTONThat is just about the time when the right hon. Gentleman withdrew the grant.
§ Mr. HENDERSON STEWARTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this problem has become serious and acute within the last few weeks?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI am well aware of the gravity of the problem, and that is why I said in my answer that I was not satisfied with the present methods.
§ Captain McEWENIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this grass sickness among horses has now appeared in Berwickshire, a part of the country where it has hitherto been unknown?
§ Sir G. COLLINSindicated assent.
§ Mr. MACLAYWill the right hon. Gentleman call the attention of local authorities in Scotland to the large increase of rabbits in some parts? It has been suggested that they may carry this grass disease from one part of the country to another.
§ Sir G. COLLINSI will call their attention to that matter.