§ MR. KENNYasked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, If it is a fact that the Local Government Board has impounded the rates of the Kildysart (county Clare) Union to the extent of £905, due on account of the Seeds Supply (Ireland) Act; if, previous to adopting this course, the local guardians had definitely refused to liquidate the debt; in how many instances has a similar course been adopted by the Local Government Board; and, if the total outstanding amount on account of the Seeds Act can be stated?
§ MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANThe Local Government Board have impounded the rates of Kildysart Union to the extent of £905, due under the 1068 Seeds Supply (Ireland) Act, and they were bound by the Act to do so. The Guardians had not definitely refused, but they had failed to liquidate their debt, although allowed a considerable extension of time beyond the date at which the sum was due. The Board have been obliged to exorcise their compulsory powers in 58 similar instances. The total amount now outstanding for seed loans is £106,597 4s. 4d.
§ MR. KENNYDoes the right hon. Gentleman mean to convey that in 58 other Unions the Local Government Board impounded the rates?
MR. CAMPBELL-BANNEEMANNo; I do not know to what extent the Local Government Board exercises their powers.