HC Deb 23 February 1897 vol 46 cc967-8
SIR THOMAS LEA (Londonderry, S.)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether his attention has been drawn to meetings of the National School Teachers of Ireland, where resolutions have been passed requesting that the rate for school teachers' residences be reduced from 5 per cent. to the time extended from 35 to 61 years for repayment; and if the Government will accede to the request?

THE CHIEF SECRETARY FOR IRELAND (Mr. GERALD BALFOUR,) Leeds, Central

Resolutions of the nature referred to have been received. I could not, however, say whether the Government are prepared to accede to the request of the teachers without having an opportunity of further considering the proposals put forward, as well as the views thereon of the Commissioners of National Education, who, I understand, have had the subject before them at their meeting today. I may also remind my hon. Friend that the question raised is largely a financial one affecting the Treasury, and that legislation would be necessary, in any event, to give effect to the proposals—even should it be considered desirable to make any alteration in the existing law.