§ Mr. ALBERYasked the Minister of Agriculture what steps, if any, are at present taken to control the export of These inspectors act also for the county
*These inspectors act also for the county.2063W horses for butchery purposes, with a view to prevent suffering by these animals; and whether he proposes to take any further steps in this matter?
Mr. WOODUnder existing regulations, all horses exported to the Continent undergo a rigid veterinary examination and must be certified as fit in every way to travel and to work without suffering. All vessels used for this trade must conform to special regulations as to fitting, etc., designed for the comfort of the horses, and inspectors of the Ministry make journeys on such vessels from time to time to see that the regulations are carried out. In March last I appointed a Departmental Committee to inquire into this trade, and, pending the receipt their Report, which is expected about the end of June, I cannot make any announcement on the subject.