HC Deb 12 May 1909 vol 4 c1815
Mr. GINNELL

asked the Prime Minister whether there is any intention of legislating, during the present Parliament, on the poor law in Ireland in the sense of the recommendations of the recent Commissions; and, if so, can he say the probable date when a measure on that subject may be introduced?

The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Mr. Birrell)

Preparations are being made with a view to legislation on the subject. But such legislation would occupy so much time that I see no prospect of its being introduced this Session.

Captain CRAIG

May I ask whether, if the Government and the Nationalist party had supported my Bill last year, the whole matter would not now have been dealt with?

Mr. GINNELL

Can the right hon. Gentleman say is there any prospect of its being introduced next Session?

Mr. BIRRELL

I hope there is a prospect.

Mr. LONSDALE

In view of the necessity for some measure of poor law reform in Ireland, will the right hon. Gentleman give facilities for the Bill of my hon. and gallant Friend?

Mr. BIRRELL

That is a question that should not be addressed to me.