HC Deb 14 February 1898 vol 53 c480
MR. WILLIAM FIELD

I beg to ask the Attorney-General for Ireland whether he is aware that under the existing consignment notes the consignors of live stock are obliged to sign contracts for through rates which exonerate the carrying companies from any liability; and whether an Amendment in this respect will be endeavoured?

THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE

I am not aware that the facts are as stated by the hon. Member. The railway companies offer two rates, one under which they undertake the ordinary duties of carriers for hire subject to certain conditions, and the other a reduced rate at owner's risk, under which the companies are exempted from all liability not occasioned by the wilful misconduct of their servants. Whether the conditions of the notes are reasonable or not involves legal considerations of great nicety, but the existing law is amply sufficient to deal with such cases, and the persons aggrieved have the remedy in their own hands.

MR. WILLIAM FIELD

May I ask the opinion of the Irish Attorney-General upon it?

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. JOHN ATKINSON,) Londonderry, North

I beg to say, Sir, it is equally unintelligible to me.