Mr. Woodasked the Secretary of State for War whether, at the present time, a ban is imposed on ex-Army horses being exported from this country for possible use by other armies; whether it is possible to identify these horses by the identification mark at present used; and, if not, whether he will ensure that a more easily identified mark is used?
Mr. Hore-BelishasThe answer to the first part of the question is "No, Sir," and, in this connection, I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for English Universities on 12th June last.
As regards the second and third parts, the numbers branded on the hoofs of Army horses wear out in time, but a permanent brand would involve some measure of cruelty and depreciation in the market value of the horse.