§ Mr. FIELDasked the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture (Ireland) whether a sufficient number of sheep are being retained in Ireland to supply the food wants of the population and to continue the normal flocks for breeding purposes; and whether he can give an approximate estimate of the position as compared with pre-war conditions in view of the increased exports?
§ Mr. SAMUELSIn order to maintain the flocks of sheep in Ireland the Department of Agriculture put into operation the Maintenance of Live Stock (Breeding Ewes) (Ireland) Order of 1918, which prohibits the slaughter of any in-lamb ewes in Ireland, the person permitting the slaughter as well a, the seller for slaughter of any such animal being held responsible. It is anticipated that this Order will go far towards securing a sufficient supply of sheep for the country's needs. The Department will continue to watch the situation carefully, and will be prepared to take any further action which may be considered necessary.