HC Deb 25 April 1890 vol 343 cc1435-6

Resolution reported, That it is expedient to authorise the payment, out of moneys to be provided by Parliament, of a portion of the Costs, Charges, and Expenses (to an amount not exceeding £50,000), which have been or may be incurred by the Drainage Board for the River Suck Drainage District.

Resolution read a first and second time.

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That this House doth agree with the Committee in the said Resolution."

(4.32.) MR. STOREY

This is the smallest and least objectionable of the measures which were defeated last year. I am convinced by information which has reached mo that when the money has been expended it will prove to have been absolutely wasted unless further expenditure is incurred. I shall feel it my duty, without extended debate, to divide the House in order to make clear my conviction that public money ought not to be expended in such operations in Ireland any more than in England or in Scotland. I admit the hardship of the case of private persons who have come to the end of their available resources in carrying out this scheme, but I submit it never has been the custom for this country to grant public moneys to private persons for carrying on private works.

(4.35.) DR. TANNER (Cork Co., Mid)

I have opposed this measure on several occasions, and had I been allowed to be in my place in the House last Session I should then have objected to the schemes put forward by the Chief Secretary. The people who projected the works at Ballinasloe are altogether antagonistic to the Irish movement, and have been compelled to appeal to the Government for assistance, because their efforts have not been attended with success. Still, looking at the fact that a large number in the district are depending for their livelihood on the continuance of the operations, I shall support the Resolution, and I hope the House will allow the stage to be taken without further opposition.

(4.38.) MR. WADDY (Lincolnshire, Brigg)

It appears to me that the observations of the hon. Gentleman who has just spoken would apply with equal force to the shutting up of any large works. That principle is so mischievous that I shall certainly support the hon. Member for Sunderland in dividing against the Resolution.

(4.40.) The House divided:—Ayes 245; Noes 95.—(Div. List, No. 58.)

Bill ordered to be brought by Mr. Arthur Balfour and Mr. Jackson.

Bill presented, and read first time. [Bill 236.]