HC Deb 10 June 1884 vol 288 cc1893-4
MR. GIBSON

asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, If he could state to the House how many Sub-Commissioners are now employed under the Irish Land Act of 1881; how many of such officials are employed for seven years, and how many for a shorter period; whether the employment of the temporary Sub-Commissioners last named would cease on the 31st July; and, whe- ther it is then intended to appoint any more of such temporary Sub-Commissioners; and, if so, how many, and for what period?

MR. TREVELYAN

Sir, there are at present 81 Sub-Commissioners employed; 12 of them hold office for seven years from the date of their original appointments. The present term of office of the remainder will expire on the 31st of July. It is intended to continue some of them in office beyond that date; but final arrangements have not yet been made.

MR. GIBSON

said, that some little doubt existed upon this question. He understood that it was intended to retain 10 Sub-Commissioners in all—not three or five, as had been stated.

MR. TREVELYAN

was understood to indicate to the right hon, and learned Gentleman that that was correct.

MR. BRODRICK

asked, whether the right hon. Gentleman would give the House an opportunity of discussing the subject by giving ail undertaking that the Vote for the Sub-Commissioners would be taken before the 31st of July?

MR. TREVELYAN

said, he could not give any undertaking to that effect, as the matter must depend on the progress made with Business.

MR. BRODRICK

asked that the right hon. Gentleman would do something to enable the House to give an expression of opinion.

MR. TREVELYAN

said, he certainly would do his best to promote the progress of the Business of the House.