HC Deb 28 March 1912 vol 36 cc607-8
Mr. FFRENCH

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether seeing that the Development Commissioners are unable to give full attention to the Irish business of their Department, and as the Irish Board of Agriculture is in touch with Irish affairs and fully conversant with Irish requirements, he will consider the advisability of handing over to the latter all moneys belonging to the Development Grant which are ear-marked for Irish purposes?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Masterman)

I know of no reason to assume that the Development Commissioners are unable to give full attention to the Irish business of their Department. By the provisions of the Development and Road Improvement Funds Act, 1909, Grants from the Development Fund for Irish purposes can only be made by the Treasury on the recommendation of the Development Commissioners, and no Grants can be made except on such recommendation.

Lord ROBERT CECIL

May I ask whether it is accurate that money is earmarked for Irish purposes?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I do not think so.

Lord ROBERT CECIL

It is on the Paper.

Mr. JAMES HOPE

Does the hon. Gentleman consider that the Development Commissioners will be able to distinguish between requests of the Irish Agricultural Department and the true interests of Irish Agriculture.

Mr. MASTERMAN

That is a matter of opinion. I should not like to answer.