§ MR. SEXTON (Belfast, W.)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade what period of leave is annually allowed to lightkeepers in Great Britain; whether the practice in Ireland is not to allow any leave; and if there is any sufficient reason why the Irish and British lightkeepers should not be treated alike in this respect?
§ * SIR M. HICKS BEACHThe grant of annual leave to lightkeepers is essentially a question within the discretion of the Lighthouse Authorities, and one in which I cannot interfere. I have asked the English, Scotch, and Irish Boards for their regulations on the subject, and if he desires it I shall be ready 1188 to send the information to the hon. Member when I receive it.
§ MR. SEXTONI shall be glad if the right hon. Member will follow the matter up.
§ SIR M. HICKS BEACHI am not at, present aware what the regulations are.