§ 10. Mr. BYRNEasked the President of the Board of Agriculture what steps, if any, the Government propose to take to-prevent the spreading of the potato blight in Ireland; if facilities or a Government Grant for spraying will be placed at the disposal of plot holders in Ireland; and if the plots are all cultivated by working men with small wages?
§ The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Mr. Duke)My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply. A full statement on this matter was made by the Vice-President of the Department of Agriculture in answer to the hon. Member for East Mayo on the 21st June. I understand that loans for the purchase of sprayers are being granted by the Department to farmers, labourers, and others growing potatoes; but it is not proposed' to give any Grant for the purpose. No doubt a very large number of plots are being cultivated by shopkeepers, clerks, tradesmen, etc.
§ Mr. DUKEYes, if there is any indication that it is necessary, but at present there is no indication that there is any necessity for compulsion.