HC Deb 17 July 1912 vol 41 c408W
Mr. O'DONNELL

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that in meat contracts in Ireland it is prescribed that at least three days' supply per week must be foreign frozen meat; will he explain why a Government Department specially favour foreign produce as against the home article to the detriment of the country; and whether he is aware that owing to this regulation many contractors in Ireland sell locally a considerable amount of foreign meat which, but for the favour shown it by the Army, would never be sold at all in many Irish towns?

Colonel SEELY

In meat contracts in Ireland it is prescribed that at least three days supply per week must be frozen meat, except in small stations where frozen meat is difficult to obtain. The present form of tender was drawn up to secure for the soldier at the smallest possible expense to the public meat of undeniable quality. As regards the last part of the question, no information is available at the War Office.