HC Deb 03 October 1939 vol 351 cc1800-1
30. Brigadier-General Sir Ernest Makins

asked the Secretary of State for War whether there is any fixed maximum limit for the purchase of Army remounts; whether he can state the reason; and whether a similar limitation exists in respect of any other property or commodities which the War Office is commandeering at the present moment for various purposes?

Sir V. Warrender

The instructions to impressment officers prescribe a maximum price for horses, based on the prices at which the type required for Army service is normally obtainable. Owners who are not satisfied that the price tendered represents fair market value have the right to appeal to a county court judge. The instructions that have been issued regarding requisitioning generally are designed to secure that unduly expensive property shall, so far as possible, be avoided.

Sir E. Makins

Have not some of these horses already been branded and taken away?

Sir V. Warrender

If the hon. and gallant Gentleman can give me particulars of any case I will gladly have it looked into.