§ Mr. FFRENCHasked the Chancellor of Exchequer whether he is aware that an Irish farmer who improves his holding by putting up farm buildings, hay barns, etc., is liable to have his rates increased on his own improvements, even though they are paid for by money borrowed from the Board of Works; and whether, with a view to prevent a restriction of the employment of labour, he will consider the advisability of devising some other method of taxation whereby an improving tenant or occupying owner is not so heavily taxed on his own improvements?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEMy right hon. Friend cannot make any statement with regard to measures for the relief of rates in anticipation of the report of the Committee now considering the subject.