§ DR. FOX(for Mr. MOLLOY) (King's Co., Birr)asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, What has delayed the erection of labourers' cottages in the Huntstown and Shannonbridge Electoral Divisions of Birr Union, the sites selected by the Guardians being approved by the Local Government Board Inspector, the landlord, and the occupier; and, if steps will be taken to carry out the approved and unopposed scheme?
§ THE CHIEF SECRETARY (Mr. A. J. BALFOUR) (Manchester, E.)The hon. Member appears to be under some misapprehension. The Local Government Board inform me that no improvement scheme was submitted by the Guardians of Birr Union for the erection of cottages in Huntstown Electoral Division. With regard to the other Division named, a Provisional Order confirming the scheme was made on the 24th ultimo, and will become absolute on the 24th instant.
§ MR. J. O'CONNOR (Tipperary, S.)I beg to ask the right hon. Gentleman, whether it is a fact that the Privy Council persistently throws out these applications at the request of the landlords, giving costs against the promoters?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURsaid, that the Privy Council in this matter was a purely judicial body.
§ DR. FOXgave Notice that he would bring the conduct of the Privy Council, in connection with these schemes, under the notice of the House.