§ * MR. J. P. FARRELL (Cavan, W.)I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland—(1) whether his attention has been directed to the Resolution of the Bawnboy Board of Guardians, at their meeting on 26th instant, pointing out that it is impossible for the farmers of that union in the depressed state of prices to meet their present rents; and (2), whether he will be prepared to use pressure within the law on the representatives of the landlords to treat the tenants with moderation and forbearance?
§ MR. GERALD BALFOURThe Resolution referred to has been received by me, and on the general question I would refer the hon. Gentleman to my previous statements in the matter. With regard to the second paragraph, I have no power to do what the hon. Member suggests and no efficient means of exerting any influence for the purpose. At the same time, it is hardly necessary for me to add that it is my earnest hope that the amicable relations which now prevail with very few exceptions between landlords and tenants in Ireland will continue unbroken and undisturbed. ["Hear, hear!"]