HC Deb 06 May 1897 vol 48 cc1613-4
MR. BERNARD MOLLOY (King's Co., Birr)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether, in view of the adverse opinion expressed, irrespective of Party, to the Agriculture and Industries (Ireland) Bill, he intends to proceed further with that Bill; and, if not, whether, before introducing another Bill on the same subject, he will consult with the representatives of Ireland on the nature and form of such Bill?

MR. GERALD BALFOUR

It would, in my judgment, be altogether premature to assume that the Agriculture and Industries (Ireland) Bill has been condemned by public opinion in Ireland.

MR. DILLON

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord lieutenant of Ireland when he proposes to take the Second Readings of the Poor Relief (Ireland) Bill and of the Agriculture and Industries (Ireland) Bill?

MR. GERALD BALFOUR

I am not in a position at present to fix a date for the Second Reading of the Agriculture and Industries Bill. As regards the Poor Relief Bill, I propose to put it down for Monday, and trust it may be reached in time for discussion on that day.