HC Deb 13 June 1870 vol 201 cc2009-10
MR. CHICHESTER FORTESCUE

moved, that a Select Committee be appointed to inquire into the operation of the present area of rating within Poor Law Unions in Ireland, with a view to ascertain whether such area of rating might with advantage be extended.

Motion made, and Question proposed, That a Select Committee be appointed to inquire into the operation of the present area of rating within Poor Law Unions in Ireland, with a view to ascertain whether such area of rating might with advantage be extended."—(Mr. Chichester Fortescue.)

COLONEL WILSON-PATTEN

said, he hoped the right hon. Gentleman (Mr. Chichester Fortescue) would not at that late hour proceed with the Motion for the appointment of a Committee on a subject affecting so materially the whole interests of Ireland. This was the first time the question had been mooted since 1861, when the subject was thoroughly ventilated.

LORD CLAUD HAMILTON

said, he hoped the right hon. Gentleman would not take such a step at that time of night.

MR. M'MAHON

said, he hoped the right hon. Gentleman would not consent to postpone the discussion. He only regretted that a Bill had not been brought in at once to assimilate the law of Ireland to that of England.

MR. CHICHESTER FORTESCUE

said, his object was to fulfil a promise he had made, and which, he had every reason to believe, was entirely acceded to by the Irish Members. The only possible objection arose out of the period of the Session at which they were now arrived; but that was not a sufficient objection, because, limited as the inquiry was to the question of the area of rating in Poor Law Unions in Ireland, there was no reason why it should not be got through in a few weeks, and they would be in a much better position to form an opinion whether any and what legislation was required on the subject. The inquiry which had already been made did not at all preclude further inquiry, but, having been very imperfect, was rather an additional reason for it. He hoped no opposition would be made to the appointment of the Committee.

MR. GREGORY

said, he sincerely hoped his right hon. Friend would not persevere in the appointment of such a Committee this Session. They had already had enough of arduous duty connected with the consideration of Irish affairs, and it would be well to remember the old saying that none could carry more than they could bear.

MR. COLLINS

said, he would beg to move that the debate be now adjourned. It was generally understood that they should not enter upon any controverted matter after one o'clock, and this was not only controverted, but might lead to an Irish row.

Debate adjourned till To-morrow.