HC Deb 20 August 1889 vol 339 cc1866-7

As amended, considered.

* MR. P. A. CHANCE (Kilkenny, S.)

The object of the clause which I have to propose is to prevent the further exclusion from the benefits of the Land Act of leaseholders whose leases are not really renewable. In some cases leaseholders hold under-tenants for life, who are not certain of their power to lease, and, consequently, covenants are introduced, that if the leases granted be bad, fresh leases within the lessors' power will be granted. These leases are not really renewable leases, although they are technically so.

Clause (Covenants for renewal,)—(Mr. Chance,)—brought up, and read the first time.

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Clause be read a second time."

THE SOLICITOR GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. MADDEN, Dublin University)

I hope the hon. and learned Member will not press this Amendment. The Government cannot accept the clause, for this reason. The Bill as it stands in no degree extends the class of leaseholders admitted to the benefits of the Act of 1887; it merely removes a flaw in the title of a limited number of cases. The hon. Member's proposal would, however, bring in an altogether new class, and the Government are not prepared to agree to that being done.

* MR. CHANCE

I do not admit that that is so. If the Government will not accept the clause I will withdraw it, for I will not take the responsibility of wrecking the Bill. Heave the public to judge of the conduct of the Government. I beg leave to withdraw the Motion and clause.

Motion and Clause, by leave, withdrawn.

Bill read the third time, and passed.