§ Mr. ALFRED SHORTasked the Secretary of State for War whether the horses that are being sold in France are only those considered not worth the expense of bringing home; whether his attention has been drawn to the poster published in this connection which states that no certificate will be required from the buyer; whether the intention of this is that a buyer is not called upon to make the usual promise of good treatment; and, if so, whether this matter will be reconsidered?
Captain GUESTI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given on the 13th instant to a question on this subject asked by my hon. and learned Friend the Member for York, from which it will be seen that only animals well fitted for work in civil life are sold in France and Belgium. I have made such inquiries as were possible in the time available, but can obtain no information as to any poster of the nature suggested. If the hon. Member can furnish me with further particulars, I shall be happy to cause further inquiry to be made.
§ Lieutenant-Colonel DALRYMPLE WHITEasked the Secretary of State for War whether he can see his way to give mounted officers in France a chance of purchasing at a valuation chargers that have been ridden by them for a considerable period?
Captain GUESTNo, Sir. In order that officers in France who wish to purchase the horses they have ridden may have an opportunity of doing so, they are informed of the date and place of sale by public auction. This is as far as the Army Council can go to meet any wishes the officer may have from the point of view of sentiment.