HC Deb 24 March 1896 vol 39 cc62-3
MR. VESEY KNOX (Londonderry)

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury, whether he will consent to the Return relating to the Fee Grant (England, Ireland and Scotland) on the Paper for to-day; whether he is aware that the 18th Section and the Fourth Schedule of the Irish Education Act, 1892, lay upon the Commissioners of National Education the imperative duty of distributing the whole sum voted by Parliament as a fee grant among the teachers; and, whether the Commissioners have, nevertheless, returned in each year an unexpected balance to the Treasury?

MR. GERALD BALFOUR

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply to this Question. I am writing to the hon. Member for Londonderry suggesting a slight amendment in the proposed form of Return. On the amendment being made the Government will consent to the Return.

MR. KNOX

called attention to the last part of his Question.

MR. GERALD BALFOUR

was understood to say that an unexpended balance had been returned each year.

MR. KNOX

What is the opinion of the Treasury as to the legal question?

MR. GERALD BALFOUR

said, the hon. and learned Member must ask that question of the Treasury.