HC Deb 21 May 1878 vol 240 cc358-9
MR. M'CARTHY DOWNING

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, Whether it is his intention to proceed with the Grand Jury Law Amendment (Ireland) Bill, with a view to its becoming Law during the present Session; and, if so, when does he intend to move the Second Reading of the Bill?

MR. J. LOWTHER

Sir, I am most anxious to proceed with this Bill without delay, and I was in hopes that before Easter—[Cries of "Whitsuntide!"]—I mean what I originally said, Easter—that before Easter the House would have had an opportunity of disposing of the second reading. The time, however, occupied in the discussion of various other measures, to which I need not particularly refer, unfortunately disappointed those expectations. As to when I intend to move the second reading, the hon. Gentleman will not be surprised if I am unable to give any definite answer to his Question, when he considers the state of the Order Book, and especially the position of Supply. I hope, however, it will not be long deferred, and that to that end, hon. Members who take an interest in the Bill, will afford their assistance in preparing the way for its consideration at an early date.