§ MR. SEXTONasked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, With reference to the declaration of the Solicitor General for Ireland that the condition of the Irish magistracy was not the fault of the Executive, and that, if suitable persons were recommended for the Commission of the Peace, the Lord Chancellor would not be slow to exercise his inherent powers; and, whether he will indicate, for the public guidance, by whom, and in what manner, such recommendations should be made, whether by public memorial or resolution, and by the Municipal Councils, the public boards, the clergy, the electors, the ratepayers, or the community at large?
§ MR. TREVELYANSir, it is open to any individual, or number of individuals, to bring under the notice of the Lord Chancellor allegations that a fit and proper person for the Commission of the Peace has been brought under the consideration of the Lord Lieutenant of any county where the appointment of a magistrate is needed or required, and that the Lord Lieutenant of such county has unreasonably declined to recommend the appointment of such person to the Lord Chancellor. The Lord Chancellor, in such a case, will make inquiry into the allegations, and if he finds that they are supported by the facts, will consider the propriety of placing the persons so dealt with in the Commission of the Peace. It is not intended to lay down any rule as to the people or body of people who have a right to make an application of that sort.
§ MR. SEXTONasked whether it would be open to individuals to make representations to the Lord Chancellor direct?
§ MR. TREVELYANNot until the case has been laid before the Lord Lieutenant.