HC Deb 26 February 1917 vol 90 cc1666-7
12. Mr. MacVEAGH

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether it is proposed to take over the control of the Irish canals?

Mr. ROBERTS

As at present advised the Board of Trade see no particular reason for taking the action suggested.

Sir J. LONSDALE

Is the hon. Gentleman, in view of the general expression of opinion from Ireland in favour of this proposal, in a position to promise that the Board of Trade will give this most important subject careful consideration?

Mr. FIELD

May I ask the reason why, when the railways were taken over, the canals were not also taken over?

Mr. ROBERTS

I cannot exactly state the reason why, but I can assure the House that my right hon. Friend has a perfectly open mind upon the question.