§ Mr. C. WILLIAMSasked the Minister of Agriculture what are the latest figures of the export of horses to Belgium and other Continental countries; and if he is satisfied with the position?
§ Dr. ADDISONWith regard to the first part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which my right bon. Friend gave yesterday to the hon. Member for Central Southwark (Mr. Day), of which I am sending him a copy. With regard to the second part of the question, the whole question of the export of horses was thoroughly investigated by the Departmental Committee appointed in 1925. That Committee was satisfied that no horse which could be described as decrepit was being passed for1214W export, and that the provisions of the Acts which prohibit the shipment of horses unless fit to work and also to travel were being efficiently carried out. This position has since been and is being rigidly maintained. The answer to the latter part of the question is, therefore, in the affirmative.