§ MR. BOLAND (Kerry, S.)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware that since the year 1865 only four volumes of the ancient laws of Ireland have been published, and that the last of these was published twenty-one years ago; will he state what progress has been made in the compilation of the two remaining volumes, the publication of which has been promised 62 on three occasions during the last three years, and also when the volumes will be put in the hands of the printers with a view to publication.
§ MR. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAINThe facts are as stated in the first paragraph. Of the two remaining volumes, I am informed that the text and translation of Volume 5 is all in type, but the index and preface are not yet complete. Volume 6 now only needs its preface, but this is not yet ready, nor is the index of subjects yet in a fit stage for the press.
§ MR. BOLANDCan the hon. Gentleman say when Volume 5 is likely to be published?
§ MR. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAINIt was decided some time ago to publish the two remaining volumes together. I am afraid I am unable to name a time, but I shall be glad to see them published as early as possible.