Mr. Rostron Duckworthasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will revise the rationing scheme for horses so as to ensure that every owner of a horse shall, like the owner of a motor-car, be entitled to a small basic ration for his animals?
Mr. HudsonNo, Sir; owners of horses in common with owners of other livestock are expected to grow the feeding stuffs they need, and the small supplies of feeding stuffs available for horses under the rationing scheme must be confined to those performing useful work, where the owner has been unable to make adequate provision from his own resources.
§ Sir G. Jeffreysasked the Minister of Agriculture whether any readjustment of poultry rations between the winter and summer periods will be enforced in order to provide large quantities during the main chick-rearing season?
Mr. HudsonI would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to my reply to his similar Question on 14th October. An announcement will be made without delay if it is found practicable to make the adjustment suggested.
§ Colonel Carverasked the Minister of Agriculture what type of horses described as farm horses in work will actually qualify for rations under the new scheme; and whether it is intended that light utility horses, used partly on farms and partly for driving, will qualify for rations?
Mr. HudsonThe county war agricultural executive committees are authorised to allow rations to any horses engaged in agricultural or other necessary work, including those referred to by my hon. and gallant Friend. Rations are allowed only on proof of, and on a scale commensurate with, needs.