Mr. ALFRED T. DAVIESasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that Miss Cole, of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, has reported that during one month last winter 2,122 English horses landed at Antwerp were slaughtered at 89 different places in Belgium; whether, during this winter, about 200 partly worn-out horses have been exported every week; and whether anything is being done to stop the growth of this trade?
Sir A. BOSCAWENMy attention has been drawn to the statements in question. With regard to the first part of the question, I have repeatedly stated that the system of veterinary inspection of horses exported to the Continent was entirely reorganised in the spring of 1921, and that no horses are allowed to be shipped unless' they come fully up to the standard laid down by the Exportation of Horses Acts of 1910 and 1914, namely, fit to travel and fit to work. The average weekly export of such horses to Holland and Belgium in the period from 1st October, 1921, to the end of February, 1922, was approximately 300. The weekly export to Antwerp in the same period was approximately 150. With regard to the last part of the question, no relaxation of the high standard of inspection has been or will be allowed. This inspection prevents the shipment of any but fit horses in good working condition. The Ministry would not be justified in interfering with a perfectly legitimate trade so long as it is carried out under conditions such as ensure that the animals are conveyed without avoidable suffering. The Ministry has no responsibility for the treatment of animals after their arrival on the Continent, but it is assured by the responsible officials in both Holland and Belgium that the further transit of the animals is carefully regulated.