HC Deb 25 February 1896 vol 37 cc1058-9
MR. J. FIELD (Dublin, St. Patrick)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, whether the Government intend to introduce a Bill to reform and reorganise the Irish Lights Board?

THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE (Mr. C. T. RITCHIE,) Croydon

My right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. The answer is in the negative.

MR. FIELD

asked if the right hon. Gentleman was aware of the dissatisfaction that existed amongst all political parties respecting the administration of the Irish Lights Board?

MR. RITCHIE

said, he was not aware of the dissatisfaction, but his impression was that it would tend to the good administration of the Irish Lights Board if, when that body co-opt, they would co-opt gentlemen who were more acquainted with the matters they had to deal with than the gentlemen co-opted were.

MR. G. W. WOLFF (Belfast, E.)

inquired if the right hon. Gentleman had no power to compel the Board to co-opt such gentlemen.

MR. RITCHIE

was afraid he had no influence, but if any representation of his would be of any avail he would be glad to make it.

COLONEL WARING (Down, N.)

Who has control over the Board?

MR. RITCHIE

Only themselves, I am afraid.

MR. FIELD

Do they themselves contribute the money which they spend?

MR. SPEAKER

That does not arise out of the question on the Paper?