HC Deb 06 August 1918 vol 109 c1098
94. Mr. FIELD

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he has made inquiries respecting the demand of Irish plot-holders to obtain the grant of £2 per aero given to British plot-holders; and whether security of tenure will be guaranteed for increased food production?

Mr. SHORTT

I have made inquiries into this matter, and as regards the demand of Irish plot-holders for a grant, I would refer the hon. Member to the full reply given to his question on this subject on the 18th July by my hon. and learned Friend the Attorney-General for Ireland. So far as lettings under the Defence of the Realm Regulations are concerned, the tenure is as secure in Ireland as in England; and as regards lettings made under the Local Government Allotments and Land Cultivation (Ireland) Act, 1917, the continued operation of this Act after the War is one of the matters to be dealt with by general reconstructive legislation.

Mr. FIELD

Is it not a fact that this grant is paid to English allotment-holders, and will it be paid to Irish allotment-holders?

Mr. SHORTT

My information is to the contrary.

Mr. FIELD

Will the right hon. Gentleman make inquiry?

Mr. SHORTT

Yes.