§ MR. MACVEAGHI beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieu- 726 I tenant of Ireland whether he can state what rates of interest were charged on loans for labourers' cottages in Ireland prior to 3rd March, and what rates are now charged; and at whose instance and on what grounds the increased rate was imposed; whether he is aware that the effect has been the abandonment of schemes for the erection of cottages by numerous district councils; and whether, in view of the failure of the Government to pass comprehensive legislation on the subject this session, he will make representations to the Treasury as to the necessity for reducing the rates of interest now charged.
§ MR. WYNDHAMAn oral reply to this Question cannot conveniently be given, since it involves the reading out of a large number of figures. With the hon. Member's permission I will circulate the Reply with to-night's Votes.