§ Mr. RATCLIFFEasked the Food Controller if he is aware that in Bradford, Halifax, and Huddersfield, the number of calves slaughtered during April, 1919, amounted to 3,946 as compared with 1,528 for the corresponding period of 1918, or an increase of 2,418 calves; and whether some restriction can be placed on this excessive slaughter in the interests of the cattle stocks of this country, as a good proportion of these calves are good calves for rearing into cattle?
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§ Mr. McCURDYThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The figures as quoted by the hon. Member are, however, misleading. The increase in the number of calves slaughtered in the authorised slaughter-houses in these three towns is due to the fact that under the Live Stock (Sales) Order which came into force in May, 1918, all calves must be slaughtered in Government authorised slaughter-houses only. It is generally agreed that the Calves (Sales) Order has acted as a restraining influence on the slaughter of calves.