§ SIR THOMAS ESMONDE (Wexford, N.)I beg to ask the First Lord of the Treasury if he will state what are the 609 intentions of the Government with regard to land purchase in Ireland generally, and in particular with regard to the county of Wexford, in view of the fact that in that county a number of tenants have arranged to purchase their holdings, but that the purchase of these holdings cannot be proceeded with owing to lack of funds.
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURNo doubt the case of Wexford justifies the demand for some action on the part of His Majesty's Government, but I cannot, in answer to a question, make a general statement with regard to our policy.
§ SIR THOMAS ESMONDEWhen will it be convenient for the right hon. Gentleman to make such a statement?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURwas understood to reply that he could not make such a statement until the pressing financial business of the Government had been disposed of.