§ MR. MARUM (Kilkenny, N.)asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Whether he is aware of the failing supply of native timber trees in Ireland, mainly owing to the defective state of the Law in regard to planting of the same, notwithstanding that, during the passing of the Land Law Act of 1881 and since then, efforts have been made strenuously and unsuccessfully every Session by private Members to remedy the same by introducing Bills; whether the Government are prepared to introduce a measure upon the subject, or afford facilities for the passing of a Trees Planting Bill; and, whether the Government will take the question of re-afforesting in Ireland, even partially into consideration, for the purpose of developing the resources of the country?
§ THE CHIEF SECRETARY (Sir MICHAEL HICKS-BEACH) (Bristol, W.)I fear that any failure in the supply of trees in Ireland is due to other causes besides the defective state of the Law. But I may remind the hon. Member that he was successful in passing a Bill on this subject through the House last Session. I shall be glad if I can aid him in dealing with it; but I cannot promise any special facilities.