MR. FIELD (Dublin, St. Patrick)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Trade when the revised rates of the Railway Companies may be expected; whether the Board of Trade will insist on such a system of through rates being adopted as will prevent preferential rates in favour of foreign imports, and ensure equalisation of charges to native producers; and whether he will ask the railway managers to give a clear definition of what, in their opinion, constitutes a reasonable time for the conveyance and delivery of live stock?
§ THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE (Mr. MUNDELLA,) Sheffield, BrightsideI have promised to communicate some information from the Railway Companies Association on Friday in connection with the revision of rates. I have no power to insist on any system of through rate. Differences of charge, and preferences, are dealt with by the Act of 1888. I do not think any good purpose would be answered by asking the managers of Railway Com- 20 panies what, "in their opinion, constitutes a reasonable time for the conveyance and delivery of live stock," but I am prepared to bring to the notice of the Railway Companies any case of undue detention that may be furnished to me.
MR. FIELD"It seems to me the present system is one of protection for the foreigner and one most detrimental to the nation. Will the Government endeavour to secure for British traders facilities equal to those enjoyed by the foreign producer?
§ MR. MUNDELLAThe whole question of foreign rates is dealt with in the Statute of 1888. The Government will consider any cases of complaint laid before thorn.
MR. FIELDDoes the right hon. Gentleman object to a Select Committee being appointed to inquire into this very important question?
§ MR. MUNDELLAI have promised that a Committee shall be shortly appointed to inquire into the whole question of railway rates.