§ Mr. Canningpresented a petition from the merchants and traders of Liverpool, praying for a repeal of the Union duties. He was instructed to support the petition on three grounds: First, on the ground, that the duties were productive of an inconsiderable revenue; Secondly, that much inconvenience was sustained in their collection; and lastly, that by their discontinuance great assistance would be rendered to the Irish manufacturers. He wished to know, from the chancellor of the exchequer whether it was his intention speedily to bring the subject before the House.
The Chancellor of the Exchequerreplied, that he had received a communication from the chamber of commerce in Dublin, intimating, that it would be more agreeable, if the consideration of the subject were deferred for the present session.
§ Sir H. Parnellprotested against any further delay. He was convinced that, by a repeal of the duties, the Irish manufacture would be considerably benefited. He hoped the session would not pass without some step bring taken.
§ Mr. Canningexpressed a wish, if it were resolved that the subject should not be considered in the preset session, that it should be understood by all parties, that it would certainly be taken into consideration in the course of the next.
The Chancellor of the Exchequerpledged himself to bring the subject before the House at as early a period as possible.
§ Ordered to lie on the table.