§ 11. Mr. HUGH BARRIEasked what was the amount standing to the credit of the Royal Irish Constabulary Force Fund on 31st October, 1902, and at 31st October, 1911; whether this fund is governed by any and what Acts of Parliament; whether the purpose of it is to compensate widows and orphans of members either surviving or on pension after the death of subscribing members; and is it intended that the proposed Home Rule Parliament should have control of this fund?
§ Mr. BIRRELLOn 31st October, 1902, the securities standing to the credit of the Benefit Branch of the Constabulary Force Fund were: Consols, £220,141; Local Loans Stock, £154,000. On 31st October, 1911, the amounts were: Consols, £230,321; Local Loans Stock, £154,000; and a cash balance of £2,594. The fund was created by 6 and 7 Wliliam IV., cap. 13; and it is also governed by 29 and 30 Victoria, cap. 103, and 37 and 38 Victoria, cap. 80. The Benefit Branch of the fund was closed to new entrants by 46 and 47 Victoria, cap. 14, sec. 11. The trusts of the fund are to provide gratuities for the widows and children of subscribers, and it is invested under the direction of the National Debt Commissioners. If the fund is not wound up before the day of transfer it will after that day remain under the control of the National Debt Commissioners, save so far as it may be required to meet the claims of persons still having claims upon it.