HC Deb 25 July 1905 vol 150 c189
MR. BOLAND (Kerry, S.)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether the Department of Agriculture and Technical Instruction is in a position to obtain the necessary information in order to compile complete statistics as to the trade between Ireland and Great Britain; and, if not, will he make such representations to the Treasury as will secure the removal of any difficulties that may exist.

MR. WALTER LONG

As the result of negotiations with the harbour and port authorities, the Department are now preparing statistics of Irish imports and exports. The first publication of these statistics will take place about the end of this year.

MR. BOLAND

Will it cover the whole trade?

MR. WALTER LONG

I think so.

MR. FIELD (Dublin, St. Patrick)

Is there any secrecy about this matter? As a member of a harbour board I have been informed there is.

MR. WALTER LONG

No. No doubt in the collection of financial statistics certain information is regarded as confidential, but the results will be included in the Return.

MR. JOYCE (Limerick)

Will the right hon. Gentleman give instructions to carry out the request of the hon. Member for South Kerry?

MR. WALTER LONG

That has been done.