§ MR. FLYNN (Cork, N.)To ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether his attention has been directed to the detailed Return of Appeal Judicial Rents for January, 1901, issued by the Land Commission; is he aware that these rents fixed by the Chief Land Commission show an average increase on the rents fixed by the Sub-Commission of 18s. per tenancy in Antrim, 18s. in Fermanagh, and £1 10s. in Down, an average increase of 14s. for the Province of Leinster, and of 18s 3d. for the whole of Ireland; and, whether, in view of these figures and of the expense and the delay caused, steps will be taken by the Government this session to abolish this practice of appeal from the Sub-Commissioners except where legal questions may arise.
§ MR. WYNDHAMThe averages quoted in the Question do not afford a 1342 proper basis from which to draw conclusions as to the general result of the decisions of the Land Commission Court. The Court decides judicially in each case after hearing the evidence of the parties, upon consideration of the report of the Valuers, and of all the circumstances of the case, holding and district. The reply to the second paragraph is in the negative.
§ MR. FLYNNDoes not the cost in respect of appeal exceed the entire amount of valuations dealt with? Will the Land Bill to be introduced deal with that question?
§ MR. WYNDHAMI cannot discuss the Irish Land Bill now. The expenses of litigation are very heavy in Ireland.