HC Deb 19 February 1857 vol 144 c926

Order read, for resuming Adjourned Debate on Question [18th February]— That there be laid before this House, Returns of any Communications addressed to the Commissioners for the Sale of Incumbered Estates in Ireland, or to any of them, relating to the removal of Baron Richards from the office of Chief Commissioner, and of the dates of said Communications, if any: Of the Order or Communication addressed to Baron Richards, containing his removal from said Court, and of the date of same: And, of any Order or Warrant for the appointment of a third Commissioner since the removal of Baron Richards.

Question again proposed.

Debate resumed.

MR. WHITESIDE

said, that until these Returns were laid upon the table, he hoped Her Majesty's Government would assure the House that no appointment of a third Commissioner would be made. He must candidly admit that his object in moving for the Returns was to raise the question how far such an appointment was required, and he considered that he could prove that by a re-arrangement of the existing staff, and a transfer of the office to the vicinity of the Four Courts, two Commissioners would be sufficient for the work.

MR. HORSMAN

said, the application of the hon. and learned Gentleman had come too late. Notwithstanding that he had told him yesterday no appointment to the vacant Commissionership had as yet been made, he had learned that day that a third Judge had been appointed.

MR. WHITESIDE

said, it was very sudden. Was he appointed at the same salary?

MR. HORSMAN

Yes; at the same salary—£3,000 a year.

Question put, and agreed to.

The House adjourned at half after One o'clock.