HC Deb 28 October 1918 vol 110 cc1132-3W
Mr. LUNDON

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if the National Stud at Kildare has been a paying concern to the nation; and will he give the amount of profit or loss for each year since it has been taken over up to the 1st of January, 1918?

Sir R. WINFREY

The accounts of the National Stud, which was taken over by the Government on 1st January, 1916, for the year ended 31st December, 1916, and for the year ended 31st December, 1917, show profits of £2,600 and £3,500 respectively, interest on capital and management not being charged. For the latter the country is greatly indebted to Captain J. H. Greer, who has given his valuable services free.

Mr. LUNDON

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office why no attempt has ever been made to improve the breeding of the light-horse industry in Ireland through the agency of the National Stud at Kildare; whether he is aware that the upkeep and maintenance of the half-bred, three-quarter bred and thoroughbred hunter is more essential to the needs of Great Britain and Ireland than the maintenance of the thoroughbred racehorse; and, if this property was taken over for the purpose of helping in the development and improvement of those classes of horses which the country needs, will some scheme be evolved by which this stud shall be utilised in part for the needs of the light-horse breeding industry?

Sir R. WINFREY

The National Stud at Kildare was accepted by the Government on military considerations. The property is vested in the Army Council, for whom it is managed by the Board for the breeding of thoroughbred horses as foundation stock for the type of horses required for the Army. The powers of the Board do not extend to Ireland and they cannot, therefore, control the light-horse breeding industry in that country. But Irish breeders have equal opportunities of utilising the services of the valuable stallions of the stud. The Board are aware of the value of the hunter type of horse and hope that the National Stud will prove useful in the future development of light-horse breeding.