HC Deb 06 May 1913 vol 52 cc1867-8
100. Mr. GINNELL

asked how many formulated schemes for labourers' cottages under the Labourers (Ireland) Acts are wholly or partially suspended for want of money on the terms of the latest loan for this purpose, and the aggregate number of cottages prevented by this cause; also the estimated number of cottages on the scale of previous experience, for which the formation of schemes has been prevented during the last two years by the public knowledge that money could not be obtained; and whether a further loan will soon be available for this purpose?

Mr. BIRRELL

As I have already stated, out of the additional million provided by the Act of 1911 loans amounting to nearly £250,000 have been sanctioned, while about £410,000 will probably be required for the carrying out of schemes already inquired into, but where loans have not been sanctioned; thirty-nine other schemes have been actually lodged, but have not been inquired into, involving the erection of about 5,000 cottages, and the provision of 460 allotments at an estimated total cost of about £908,000. I cannot say whether a further sum will be available, but I shall be very glad to get it if I can.

Mr. GINNELL

In view of the fact that there remain to be built some 5,000 new cottages, may I ask whether it is from the Chief Secretary that the Chancellor of the Exchequer received his information last week, when he made a speech in which he denied that there was any necessity for money for the purpose of providing cottages?

Mr. BIRRELL

I do not know what took place with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, but I cannot believe that he said that there was no necessity whatsoever for more cottages to be built in Ireland than they have now.

Mr. SHEEHAN

Has the right hon. Gentleman made representations to the Treasury as to the sum required for the erection of cottages?

Mr. BIRRELL

Certainly; the Irish Government know perfectly well that if the Treasury can provide an extra million of money for the erection of cottages in Ireland, that money can be very well spent in that country.

Mr. SHEEHAN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Chancellor of the Exchequer said that no representation had been made to him to that effect?

Mr. BIRRELL

No.

Mr. SHEEHAN

Well, he has.