HC Deb 18 May 1911 vol 25 cc2122-3
Mr. MOORE

asked how it has been possible for the British Census authorities to give approximate returns of the last Census for cities like Glasgow and other places, while the Irish Registrar General is unable to give returns for Portadown, with about 12,000 inhabitants; and what experience, if any, of Census work this official has ever had, and on what qualification was he appointed by the Government to his present position?

Mr. BIRRELL

The Commissioners appointed under the Irish Census Act consider that they are not authorised to give any information in connection with the Census prior to the presentation to Parliament of the abstract referred to in Section (6) of the Act. Their preliminary report is completed, and will be in the hands of the Irish Government to-day, which is two days earlier than on the occasion of the last Census. The Registrar-General possessed the medical qualifications which have usually been considered necessary in the ease of those holding that office, and has, since his appointment, discharged all his duties with the most marked efficiency. Like most of his predecessors he has had to acquire his experience of Census work after appointment.

Mr. MOORE

Will the right hon. Gentleman undertake that, this official will devote himself to his work instead of going about the country making speeches for the Lord-Lieutenant?

Mr. BIRRELL

It is a pity that the hon. Member should put to me a question of that sort reflecting on the character of a most efficient public servant who is not here to defend himself. I understand that he discharges all his duties with the most marked efficiency, and I hear from the staff that they are very glad to be under the control of so eminent and energetic a gentleman.

Mr. MOORE

Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire how often this gentleman has been absent from his duties in the course of the last year?

Mr. BIRRELL

I will do nothing of the kind.

Mr. MOORE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that he went to France with the Lord-Lieutenant?

Mr. BIRRELL

No.

Mr. MOORE

Is he aware that he makes speeches once a month for the Lord-Lieutenant through the country?

Mr. BIRRELL

I must protest against these imputations against an efficient public servant.