LAND LAW (IRELAND) BILL. (Hansard, 6 April 1881)

§ SIR STAFFORD NORTHCOTE
Before the House rises, I wish to ask a Question of the Government. It would be convenient if we could know whether, supposing the Land Law (Ireland) Bill is introduced to-morrow, we shall be likely to have the Bill in our hands on Friday morning? It is understood that the House is to rise for the Holidays on Friday, and that the Government proposes that we should take the second reading of the measure on the very first day after the Holidays. I do not know how far that arrangement may be modified; but, at all events, we 847 clearly ought to have the Bill in our hands as soon as possible. I hope, therefore, it may be found possible to circulate it on Friday, so that hon. Members may have it in their possession before leaving London.

§ LORD FREDERICK CAVENDISH
said, that, as no Notice had been given of the Question, he could not give a positive answer. All he could say was that his right hon. Friend at the head of the Government was most anxious that the Bill should be in the hands of Members on Friday morning. There might, however, be some delay in the printing of the measure.

§ MR. MITCHELL HENRY
asked, whether it would not be possible to have the Bill in the Bill Office, so that they could obtain it there? He did not understand why they should be always in the hands of the printers. They were the servants of the House, and the excuse that they were obstacles to hon. Members getting the Bills ought not to be put forward. He saw no reason why, as it was understood, there would be no discussion on Thursday, the Bill should not be distributed to Members directly after the Prime Minister's introductory speech.

§ LORD FREDERICK CAVENDISH
said, he believed there were forms which rendered it impossible that Bills should be issued directly they were printed. Therefore, difficulties might arise, though he hardly anticipated any. The Government, however, would do the best they could in the matter.

§ SIR STAFFORD NORTHCOTE
You might have it printed at The Standard Office.

§ MR. GIBSON
said, that what his right hon. Friend had asked for was only reasonable. No unnecessary time should be allowed to elapse before the circulation of that important Bill, which, he assumed, was now in the hands of the printer or some printer. He would remind the Government that the Coercion Act got printed and issued before hand.