§ The House went into a Committee on this Bill.
Mr. Bankesthought that the situation of Ireland was such, that instead of an additional duty on tobacco, a modification of the property tax would be more desirable. The finances of that kingdom were so low, that it was impossible she could support herself, and was becoming a burthen on this country, in consequence of the Union.
Mr. M Naughtenwas concerned to hear the hon. gentleman charge the sister kingdom with being a burthen on England, and hoped, that whatever might be done to relieve her from her present situation, at least the property tax would not be resorted to; that was a tax which the people could ill bear; it was a tax they much dreaded. He lamented that other gentle-men had not considered the situation of Ireland as well as the hon. gentleman.
Mr. Foster, with considerable warmth and agitation of mind, noticed the observations of the hon. gentleman, and denied that Ireland was a burthen on England. If she was indebted to England for a temporary loan, she would, in honour, discharge it. Did she, he would ask the hon. gentleman, call for the Union? Was it not forced upon her? He had voted against the measure; but the kingdoms being now united, it was better to conciliate all differences. The hon. gentleman ought, in justice, to recant the expressions.
Mr. Bankeswas not astonished that the hon. members had heard with surprise and indignation the situation of Ireland. It was true that she could not support herself; for was not she, at this moment, receiving pecuniary assistance, by way of loan, from this country? He did not mean to say that it was improper to extend that assistance. If the situation of Ireland had been examined into, this angry debate might have been avoided. He could not consent to recant what he had said. It was the effect of an anxious desire for the happiness of Ireland, and, therefore, he could brook the language of the honourable gentleman, who desired him not to interfere with that kingdom.—(Mr. M'Naughten here observed that he had not used that expression.)—He would appeal to them around him whether the honourable gentleman had not so said; but, however, he still thought the Property Tax would he the best mode of providing for the revenue, instead of the Tobacco Duty, as that would exonerate the poorer classes.
Mr. M'Naughtendenied that he was angry with the hon. gentleman who had given an Irish recommendation with respect to the taxes, by stating that a modification of the Property Tax would be desirable for Ireland. There was no tax on Property in Ireland. Ireland, instead of being averse to, would be very much obliged by the hon. gentleman's interference in her affairs, because whatever affected her must equally affect England.
§ The Report was ordered to be received to morrow.