§ COLONEL COLTHURSTasked the Secretary to the Treasury, Whether the Government can promise any day for the discussion of the principles involved in the Bill which has been lately introduced to remove some of the obstables that impede the intentions of Parliament with respect to the development of the system of arterial drainage in Ireland; and, if such day cannot be granted, whether the Government will consent to withdraw the Bill now before the House, so as to enable a discussion to be taken upon the Motion which stands first for Tuesday next?
§ MR. COURTNEYAs the hon. and gallant Member knows, the Bill of the Government deals with the whole question of drainage and land improvement, and contains provisions for removing, in an immediate practical way, difficulties which are daily felt; it has been carefully prepared, and, although its progress is at present blocked, it would be inexpedient to withdraw what is a complete project of legislation, in order to facilitate the discussion of an abstract Resolution. The question can, of course, be reconsidered later on; but we do not despair of passing a Bill which we believe is wanted.