HC Deb 24 April 1907 vol 173 cc56-7
CAPTAIN CRAIG (Down, E.)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland how much of the £1,635,207 available by the Estates Commissioners on the 16th February last to meet sales under the Irish Land Act of 1903 has been paid out in part settlement of the £31,033,776 estimated as being required to meet sales in hand on that date; whether the balance, if any,. is bearing interest; and, if so, what rate.

MR. BIRRELL

I am informed that the amount remaining available for advances on 20th instant was estimated to be £371,628. The investment of balances is a matter for the National' Debt Commissioners, and I understand. that my hon. friend the Secretary to the Treasury has answered Questions on the subject within the past day or two.

CAPTAIN CRAIG

Can the right hon. Gentleman explain how it is that, with so many estates wanting settlement, so large a balance is retained in hand?

MR. BIRRELL

I should like notice of that.