§ 11. Mr. Peter Freemanasked the Minister of Fuel and Power if he is aware that the pit pony "Ned" in the Bedlington Colliery has developed illness and that a notice has been placed over his stall forbidding any one to use him for any purpose; what is the nature of the complaint; what was the cause; and whether he will permit another veterinary surgeon other than his own official to examine him.
§ Mr. GaitskellI am aware that the pony "Ned" was recently found to be suffering from a sore back and was withdrawn from work. Pending his removal to the surface for treatment, the usual notice was placed above his stall. I am informed that the most probable cause of the pony's condition is some ill-adjustment of the harness.
The pony is being treated under the supervision of the National Coal Board's consulting veterinary surgeon. He has also been examined by His Majesty's Inspector of Horses in Mines, who reports that, apart from his sore back, the pony is in very good condition. As the inflammation is responding to treatment, I can see no good reason for an examination by another veterinary surgeon.
§ Mr. FreemanAs this pony has since been removed from the colliery entirely and is now on the surface, will the Minister allow another veterinary surgeon to examine him, because the reasons of which I have been informed are not those which have been given to him?
§ Mr. GaitskellI have already explained that this pony has been brought to the surface. As to a further examination, it might be possible, but personally, I do not think it is in the least necessary.
§ Mr. FreemanWill the Minister give permission for this to be done?
Mr. Wilson HarrisWith a view to raising this unfortunate quadruped's morale, can the Minister arrange to call him "Nye"?