§ MR. P. SCROPEsaid, that one point only of the very able statement of the noble Lord last night was not quite clear: it respected the permanent system of increased relief to the poor of Ireland; and he wished to know distinctly whether any security would be introduced into the Bill that the relief might in all cases be effectually afforded?—whether, for example, a board of guardians, like that of Castlebar, would be able to refuse relief at discretion? Was a right of relief to be introduced in any practical way? A second question he wished to put was, whether the new law was intended to be accompanied by any act to prevent mendicancy and vagrancy in Ireland?
LORD J. RUSSELLanswered, that according to the provisions of the Bill introduced last night, those paupers who were unable to work from age, from permanent infirmity, or bodily defect, would be entitled to relief from boards of guardians. For other classes of paupers, provision was made for particular cases. As to enforcing relief, supposing the guardians to refuse to carry the law into effect, he believed some further power would be required; and if that opinion were confirmed, it would be introduced into the Bill. On the subject of vagrancy, the hon. Member was aware that it was a very important one; and he (Lord J. Russell) thought that further legislation would be necessary, but no Bill for the purpose was now ready.