§ MR. W. H. SMITHasked in what way the Government proposed to deal with existing contracts in the new Bill about to be introduced? It was intended that the rates now paid by the occupier should be paid half by the owner and half by the occupier; but the right hon. Gentleman (Mr. Goschen) made no reference last night to the case of existing contracts such as leases for terms of years?
§ MR. GOSCHENsaid, he had omitted to state last night that existing contracts at the time of the passing of the Bill would not be interfered with by the Bill.