§ Sir R. Russellasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry when licences were issued in respect of the 8,752 sheep not for breeding exported in February 1973 to Belgium and the 1,265 exported to the Republic of Ireland.
§ Sir G. HoweLicences for the export to Belgium of sheep not for breeding or exhibition were last issued in November190W 1972 and all expired by 31st January 1973. The figures of exports for any month are based on documents received in the statistical office of Her Majesty's Customs and Excise from traders during that month. The shipments will have been made earlier.
No licences were issued from Great Britain in respect of the exports to the Republic of Ireland referred to. Licences are not however required for the export of sheep from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland.