MR. FIELDI beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether the Board of Irish Lights were within their rights in refusing information about contracts to a Member of this House, who requires the parti- 1404 culars on behalf of his working men constituents?
MR. J. MORLEYIt would be convenient if the hon. Gentleman would give notice of this question to my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade.
§ THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE (Mr. BRYCE,) Aberdeen, S.The control of the Board of Trade over the Lighthouse Authorities is a financial one only, and I have no power to interfere with the Board of Irish Lights on such a matter as the hon. Member refers to.
MR. FIELDI beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether he will bring in a Bill this Session to alter the constitution of the Irish Lights Board, and to extend the franchise upon which they are elected?
MR. J. MORLEYI have already stated to the House that the present constitution of the Board of Irish Lights cannot be regarded as satisfactory, and that I was aware of the desirability of having a representative element introduced on the Board. The subject is engaging the attention of the Board of Trade, the Department more immediately concerned. I do not, however, see any prospect of legislation on the subject being introduced this Session.