§ 47. Mr. GRETTONasked if there is any Clause in the Government of Ireland Bill which would prevent the Irish Parliament repealing or altering in any way the Companies Consolidation Act, 1908 (8 Edw. 7, c. 69); and, if so, which?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThere is no Clause in the Government of Ireland Bill 2284 which would prevent the Irish Parliament repealing or altering the Companies (Consolidation) Act, 1908, as regards matters within their legislative powers.
§ 51. Mr. MOOREasked if it will be in the power of the Irish Parliament, proposed to be established, to pass legislation for the nationalisation of the Irish railways on such terms as they may deem expedient, and to alter or repeal any existing provision of the Railways Acts?
§ The PRIME MINISTERAs my right hon. Friend the Chief Secretary stated on 7th May last, it would be competent for the Irish Parliament to nationalise the Irish railways on proper terms, but not to alter any existing law as to the use of railway lines for naval and military purposes, or to make any new law on that subject.
§ Mr. WATTIs it not the case that under the Act of 1845 the State could buy up the British railways at twenty-five years' purchase?
§ The PRIME MINISTERwas understood to reply in the affirmative, adding, with 10 per cent, in addition.
§ 52 and 53. Mr. MOOREasked the Prime Minister (1) if he is cognisant of any understanding or agreement with the Nationalist leaders whereby the proposals contained in the Government of Ireland Bill, if passed into law, will be accepted in full satisfaction of the Nationalist demand for self-government as a final settlement; and (2) if he is cognisant, of any understanding or agreement with the Nationalist leaders by which further agitation to extend the powers and concessions granted by the Government of Ireland Bill would be prevented?
§ The PRIME MINISTERIn reply to this and the following question, I am not cognisant of any agreement or understanding in regard to these matters beyond what has been publicly said on the floor of the House.