HC Deb 20 June 1898 vol 59 cc899-900

(In the Committee.)

Question put— That clause 1 stand part of the Bill.

Agreed to.

Question put— That clause 2 stand part of the Bill.

Agreed to.

Question put— That the schedule stand part of the Bill.

Agreed to.

On the return of Mr. SPEAKER the Bill was reported to the House.

Question put— That the Bill be read a third time.

DR. TANNER (Cork, Mid)

I object.

AN HONOURABLE MEMBER appealed to the honourable Member for Mid Cork to withdraw his objection.

ANOTHER HONOURABLE MEMBER: I think we ought to have some explanation regarding this Bill. We have rushed through the clauses in a most extra- ordinary manner, and I think the Bill ought not to be taken until to-morrow night.

MR. VESEY KNOX (Londonderry)

The Bill is one that is only a formal proceeding, and is introduced because the railway company offered a formal objection. I believe there is no objection on public grounds from any section in Ireland, and I do hope that my honourable Friend will withdraw his objection.

MR. SAMUEL (Stockton)

also objected without explanation.

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL FOR IRELAND (MR. ATKINSON)

I will give an explanation now. This Bill to promote tramways in the distressed districts of the West of Ireland is introduced owing to the fact that a petition was presented against it. Under the Order in Council £290,000 will be spent in one of the most distressed districts in the West of Ireland, and it is most essential that the work should be commenced as soon as possible.

MR. SAMUEL

If it is to be spent in the west part of Ireland I will withdraw my objection.