HC Deb 24 February 1881 vol 258 cc1652-3
MR. LOWTHER

asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, When a Return (ordered on the 12th of February 1880) will be given to the House of all moneys charged on the Consolidated Fund or voted by Parliament, or advanced out of the Consolidated or Public Revenues since the Union, to or for the benefit of Ireland, distinguishing what sums have been given and what sums lent, and how much of the money lent has been repaid and how much forgiven, and what remains due?

LORD FREDERICK CAVENDISH

As the Return alluded to comprises not only all moneys charged on or advanced from the Consolidated Fund, but also all grants of Parliament for the benefit of Ireland, the hon. Member will understand the great difficulty of completing it so as to present results of any real value. Much time and labour have already been expended upon it; and I can only say that the Treasury are using their best endeavours to collect the necessary statistics.