HC Deb 27 January 1949 vol 460 c1086
16. Mr. Sutcliffe

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many horses, other than blood stock, were exported to continental countries in 1948; and what were the figures for 1946 and 1947.

Mr. H. Wilson

I regret that this information is not available. The trade returns do not separately distinguish horses which are not of blood stock.

Mr. Sutcliffe

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that considerable numbers are being exported to continental countries and that nearly all are slaughtered as soon as they arrive? Would it not be much more humane to allow the slaughter to be done in this country? That used to be the case before the war and I understand it is now forbidden.

Mr. Wilson

I will consider that question.

Brigadier Prior-Palmer

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider raising the minimum price which it is permitted to ask for horses for export abroad?