HC Deb 28 July 1881 vol 264 cc17-8
MR. LOWTHER

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

LORD FREDERICK CAVENDISH

Sir, as I have already stated in a reply to a Question from the hon. Member, the Return is one which involves a great amount of labour in its preparation, and the terms of the Order are so wide as to leave much discretion to those who have to prepare the figures. I regret that, owing to the pressure of work during the Session, the Return has not yet been completed. I hope, however, to be able to present it before the House rises, so that it may be distributed during the Recess.