HC Deb 10 April 1913 vol 51 cc1377-8W
Mr. HUGH BARRIE

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture what has been and what is at present the toll levied on Irish cattle landed at Merklands Wharf (Glasgow); whether the charge is higher than at other ports; and whether the Department is using its influence to get it reduced?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The charges now being levied at Merklands Wharf are 2s. 6d. per head of cattle for twenty-four hours' accommodation, and 6d. per head for any subsequent period not exceeding twenty-four hours. These charges, which are higher than at any other landing place, have been only provisionally sanctioned by the Board under Article 6 of the Animals (Landing from Ireland) Order. The Board are in communication with the Glasgow Corporation with a view to a reduction.

Mr. HUGH BARRIE

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture whether harbour authorities in Scotland make the same charge for lairage of store cattle as for fat cattle; and, if so, whether he will endeavour to arrange a lesser charge for the former in future?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The distinction between fat cattle and store cattle is in many cases a matter of opinion, and it would be impracticable to differentiate between the two classes in fixing the charges for lairage accommodation.