HC Deb 21 April 1915 vol 71 c269
52. Mr. GINNELL

asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland if he will say to what cause the diminution in the progress of land purchase in Ireland from 24,169 vesting orders in the year ended 31st March, 1912, to 10,948 in the year ended 31st March, 1915, is due?

Mr. BIRRELL

The diminution in the number of holdings vested in purchasing tenants is mainly due to the decrease in the number of cases in which vendors have elected to accept payment partly or wholly in land stock.

Mr. GINNELL

Will the right hon. Gentleman say how it is that the expense of land purchase continues to increase while the work diminishes?

Mr. BIRRELL

I do not know if that is so. If the hon. Member will supply me with the facts I will be able to answer the question.

Mr. GINNELL

If the right hon. Gentleman will read that question he will find the facts that he requires.