§ Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Bill be now read a second time."
MR. P. M 'DONALD (Sligo, N.)Will the hon. and learned Gentleman the Attorney General for Ireland furnish the House with any information in regard to this Bill?
§ THE ATTORNEY GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. MADDEN, Dublin University)The Bill is one that has been very carefully prepared, and it is also one in which I am aware the hon. Gentleman opposite (Mr. M'Donald) takes great interest; but as it has only been circulated to-day, and as the subject is one of importance, I desire, as far as possible, to ascertain the views of the mercantile community of Ireland upon it before it is further considered in this House.
§ MR. A. O'CONNORWill the hon. and learned Gentleman promise that at a future time, after he has had the opportunity of ascertaining the opinions of the mercantile community in Ireland, he will afford the Irish Members an early opportunity of considering the matter?
§ MR. MADDENI can give no pledge on the subject.
Second Reading deferred till Thursday, 6th March.