§ MR. P. FFRENCH (South Wexford)I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, whether he is aware that 30 writs and about 100 civil bill processes have been served on the Templemore Estate on which negotiations for sale are pending, and that the usual reduction, namely, 25 per cent., has been withdrawn; whether he is aware that the price asked by the landlord is 18 years' purchase, and that offered by the tenants 15 years' purchase; and whether he can use his influence or take any steps to prevent a quarrel between the landlord and tenants on this estate.
MR. JOHN MORLEYI am aware that a large number of tenants on this property have been served with writs and civil bill decrees, and that negotiations with a view to sale under the Purchase Acts have taken place between the landlord and the tenants. The former has offered to sell at 18 years' purchase on the basis of existing rents, whilst the tenants have offered 18 years on a revaluation, or 15 years' purchase on present rents. With regard to the last paragraph, the Executive Government has no means of exercising its influence in the direction suggested by the hon. Gentleman in the present instance, though I would fain express the hope that, even yet, some amicable arrangement may be brought about between the parties, and the further threatened proceedings thus obviated.