§ Mr. HUGH LAWasked the Chief Secretary whether the Irish Government have prepared any legislation for next Session to carry out the recommendations of the Viceregal Commission on the Irish Poor Laws?
§ Mr. CHERRYThe heads of a Bill have been prepared, but it is not possible to make any statement at present with regard to the prospects of legislation next Session.
Captain CRAIGIs it not a fact that had it not been for the action of hon. Members below the Gangway this matter would have been dealt with last year early in the Session, only that they voted against the Bill which was introduced?
§ Mr. HUGH LAWWas not that action due to the fact that the legislation introduced by the hon. and gallant Gentleman was altogether impossible?
§ Mr. CHERRYThe Government did not attempt to introduce any Bill last Session on the subject, but I do not think that on a subject of this kind the Government could be expected to adopt the Bill of a private Member.
Captain CRAIGIs not it a fact that the Chief Secretary for Ireland stated that this Bill, which the hon. Member says is an impossible Bill, suited the requirements of Ireland in every possible way?
§ Mr. CHERRYI am not aware that he said anything of the kind. He may have said it without my knowledge.
§ Mr. MOOREHe gave a distinct pledge that if that Bill was rejected he would himself introduce the same legislation this Session.
§ Mr. CHERRYI am not aware that he gave any pledge. Any pledge which my right hon. Friend gave I am sure he will do his best to fulfil.