HC Deb 18 July 1881 vol 263 cc1225-6

Order for Second Reading read.

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a second time."—(Mr. Mundella.)

Dr. LYONS

desired to remind the Government of the necessity of a Veterinary College for Ireland. Ireland stood very much in need of veterinary surgeons, and strong representations had been made to the Government on the subject; and he begged to ask on behalf of many persons interested, whether the Government could give any assurance that they would advise the issue of a Charter for an Irish Veterinary College?

Mr. W. E. FORSTER

said, the entire question was before the Lord Lieutenant for consideration; he was not aware that the question would be raised now. He was not prepared to say the Government would advise the issue of the Charter.

MR. HEALY

asked the Vice President of the Council if he would postpone the Bill for a day or two?

MR. MUNDELLA

said, the provisions of the Bill were well known, and it had been amply discussed in the other House. He hoped the second reading might now be taken. He might add that it was as much in the interests of the owners of cattle and of humanity as of veterinary surgeons.

MR. WHITLEY

said, the Bill contained one highly objectionable clause, which would allow a man who simply had practised for some years, though without any qualification whatever, to represent himself as duly qualified. He did think that such a clause should b e expunged, and he believed the President of the Veterinary College had drawn attention to the point.

MR. MUNDELLA

said, that was really a question for Committee; but, at the same time, he might say that the President of the College had called upon him, and had urged him to take charge of the Bill. There was a clause that would allow a man, who had practised for five years, to continue that practice hereafter; and he thought that such a term of practice argued that a man was qualified.

Motion agreed to.

Bill read a second time, and committed for Friday.