§ Order for Second Reading read.
§ MR. J. LOWTHERsaid, the object of the Bill was to protect property in Ireland from the ravages committed by dogs. He had received numerous communications from Grand Juries, owners of property, farmers, and persons interested in land in Ireland, seeking some protection against this great nuisance. The tax on dogs in England had been recently raised to 7s. 6d., but in Ireland it remained at 2s. 6d.; and this low tax had been found to be productive of the very great nuisance to which he had referred, and which had led to the owners of sheep making strong representations in favour of legislation upon the subject. He begged leave to move the second reading of the Bill.
§ Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a second time."—(Mr. J. Lowther.)
2050§ MAJOR NOLANexpressed his great surprise at the Motion for the second reading of this Bill, against which he protested on the ground that the Government had committed a gross breach of faith in breaking their promise that it should not be brought on for three weeks.
§ MR. J. LOWTHERrose to Order. He was not aware that the Bill had been put down for an earlier day than had been arranged, and therefore would at once postpone the second reading to Thursday next if the hon. and gallant Gentleman wished it.
§ Second Reading deferred till Thursday next.