§ MR. T. L. CORBETT (Down, N.)I beg to ask the First Lord of the Treasury whether it is the intention of the Government to introduce any legislation to give effect to the proposal for dealing with higher education in Ireland contained in the correspondence between the Chief Secretary for Ireland and Sir Antony MacDonnell.
§ MR. A. J BALFOURIn answer to the hon. Gentleman I have to say that the Government certainly do not propose to introduce any legislation on this subject. I have frequently explained to the House, and among others to my hon. friend, that this is not a subject on which the Government are agreed.
§ MR. T. L. CORBETTWas the Chief Secretary authorised by the Cabinet to use the words in the correspondence with Sir Antony MacDonnell "I make" and "you accept?"
§ MR. SPEAKEROrder, order! The hon. Member must give notice of that Question.
§ MR. AUSTIN TAYLOR (Liverpool, E. Toxteth)If it is not the intention of His Majesty's Government to introduce legislation on this question, what is the particular function in connection with higher education in Ireland which Sir Antony MacDonnell is to perform?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURThe hon. Gentleman must have given imperfect attention to the many statements and speeches I have made on the subject. 1329 Four days ago I explained to the House that in my judgment neither this Government nor any succeeding Government could make this a Government question. If it is to be dealt with it must be dealt with by other means.