§ Mr. BOLANDasked the Chief Secretary whether he is now in a position to state what is the proposed limit of age for illiteracy under the Census (Ireland) Bill?
§ Mr. BIRRELLNo limit of age for illiteracy is prescribed by the Census (Ireland) Bill now before Parliament or by any of the previous Irish Census Acts, but the Census forms to be filled by householders provide for a return showing in the case of every person in Ireland whether he or she can read and write, read only, or cannot read. From these returns it is possible to classify the illiterates at any age which may be determined upon for the purpose of the tables which accompany the Census Report. The form of the tables to be published in connection with the Census of 1911 will be carefully considered by the Census Commissioners in order to avoid conveying a false impression with regard to the amount of illiteracy in the country, and will be subject to the approval of the Irish Government. The question of an improved tabulation of illiteracy has been specially noted for immediate consideration by the Census Commissioners when appointed.