§ Captain Sir ROWLAND BLADESasked the Food Controller whether his attention has been called to the fact that, on the 26th February, seven sheep purchased by a local butcher at the London Islington 2255W Market arrived at Epsom and were slaughtered the following day, when four of such sheep proved to be in lamb, and as to what steps local live stock commissioners take of preventing the allocation of animals for slaughter in such a condition; and whether he will take action as will prevent a repetition of a similar occurrence?
§ Mr. McCURDYThe attention of the Food Controller had not previously been called to the case to which the hon. and gallant Member refers and he is having inquiries made into it. Grading committees have been instructed to reject all pregnant animals, and it is an offence under the Live Stock (Sales) Order to send such animals to market for sale for slaughter, to sell or buy them, or cause them to be slaughtered. It will be understood, however, that the condition of the animals may sometimes be very difficult to detect.