§ MR. MEAGHERI beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland on what day he intends introducing the Poor Law Reform (Ireland) Bill; whether it is the intention of the Government to adopt the recommendations of the Vice-Regal Commission as the basis of the Bill; and whether he has entrusted the preparation of the Bill to persons who have practical experience of the working and administration of the Irish Poor Laws.
§ MR. BIRRELLThe Royal Commission on the Poor Laws and Relief of Distress is expected to report before the end of the year, when the whole question of Poor Law reform will have to be considered. The recommendations of the Vice-Regal Commission generally will form the basis of legislation for Ireland, but it remains to be seen how far the Royal Commission may adopt similar recommendations. I cannot yet say at what date it will be possible to introduce a Bill on the subject. The Irish Government, will, of course, have the assistance of its most experienced officers in the preparation of the Bill.