HC Deb 09 November 1911 vol 30 c1811
Mr. J. P. FARRELL

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he will grant the Return of Local Government Triennial Election Expenses for 1905, 1908, and 1911, appearing on the Paper in the name of the hon. Member for North Longford?

Mr. BIRRELL

A Return of Expenses in connection with the elections of 1908 was presented to Parliament on 2nd June last. Having regard to the long period which has elapsed, it would not be possible to say whether a similar Return for 1905 could be given without first communicating with all the local authorities in Ireland. As regards the expenses of the elections in 1911, some of the payments have not yet been made, and consequently it would not be possible to furnish a complete Return for this year.

Mr. FARRELL

I gather from the reply of the right hon. Gentleman that he has no objection to the Return being made, if possible?

Mr. BIRRELL

Oh, no. We shall have to wait a bit for the 1911 figures, but for 1905 I am afraid it will cost more than the inquiry is worth.