HC Deb 20 March 1912 vol 35 cc1893-4
Mr. STEWART

asked whether, since the union of the British and Irish Exchequers in 1817, any taxation has been levied upon an inhabitant of Ireland at a higher rate than upon inhabitants of similar means in Great Britain?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I fear I cannot add to the answer I gave the hon. Member on the 13th instant. The Return I mentioned will give the hon. Member such information as is available.

Mr. STEWART

Cannot the hon. Gentleman give an answer, yes or no, to a simple question like this?

Mr. MASTERMAN

It is quite impossible.

Mr. STEWART

asked the amount of the Irish debt absorbed into the Imperial Exchequer when the two Exchequers were united in 1817?

Mr. MASTERMAN

Stated in "British Currency" the amount of the Irish Debt at 1st February, 1817, was:—

Funded in Great Britain £83,944,904
Funded in Ireland £23,435,254
£107,380,158
In addition there were:—Long annuities, expiring in 1860, £129,583.

Mr. STEWART

Will the hon. Gentleman say who will bear the outstanding balance of this debt if the Exchequers are again divided?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I cannot say without notice.