§ 9. Mr. Heathcoat Amoryasked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that advertisements are appearing in the Press for horses for immediate slaughter for human consumption; and whether he will now say what is his attitude to the use of horseflesh for this purpose.
§ Mr. F. WilleyI have not seen any of these advertisements. We do not control the sale of horseflesh for human consumption.
Mr. AmoryWill the hon. Member not bear in mind that the disposal of horses for human consumption is repugnant to most people in this country, who traditionally regard the horse as a friend and a comrade, and occasionally as the champion and temporary repository of their financial fortunes?
§ Mr. WilleyWe are paying close attention to the recommendations of the Rosebery Committee, but we do not think this is a matter to which we ought to extend our control.