HC Deb 16 April 1896 vol 39 cc1037-8
MR. M. MCCARTAN (Down, S.)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland—(l)whether, considering the number of seamen coming from the coasts of counties Down and Antrim, he will use his influence with the Admiralty to have a training ship placed in Belfast Lough; and, (2) whether he will state if it is the intention to continue to keep the Grampian industrial school ship in Belfast Lough?

*MR. GERALD BALFOUR

As regards the first paragraph, I must refer the hon. Member to the reply given by the First Lord of the Admiralty to his previous question of Tuesday last. As to the second paragraph, I understand the Inspector of Reformatory and Industrial Schools has from time to time suggested the abolition of the Grampian training ship, and the transfer of the boys to a suitable house on shore, and that the Committee in October 1894, passed a resolution to the same effect. I am making inquiry as to how the matter stands precisely at present.

MR. MCCARTAN

Do I understand that the right hon. Gentleman declines to use his influence with the Admiralty in regard to the matter mentioned in the first paragraph?

*MR. GERALD BALFOUR

I think the hon. Member will see, if he reflects upon it, that he can hardly ask me to use influence with the Admiralty with regard to a matter in which their decision has been more than once stated in this House.

MR. MCCARTAN

You are responsible for the government of Ireland.

SIR JAMES HASLETT (Belfast, N.)

Is the right hon. gentleman aware that a home for the inmates of this ship has actually been provided?

*MR. GERALD BALFOUR

I was not aware of the fact, but I will make inquiry.