74. Sir F. HALLasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the total debt to the Imperial Exchequer which has been incurred by the Irish Free State since its establishment; whether any security has been given therefor in the shape of control over Customs, dues, or otherwise; and will he state what rate of interest is being paid on any sums that have been advanced and what arrangement is proposed for their repayment?
§ Sir J. BAIRDNo sums have been advanced from the Imperial Exchequer to the Irish Free State by way of loan or interest. Certain sums are payable by the Irish Free State to the Imperial Exchequer in respect of debts collected by the Free State, of the cost of services not yet transferred, and of equipment supplied; and periodical claims for repayment are being rendered. No security has been asked for these sums, nor is interest being charged. There are also certain charges which are incurred in the first instance by the Irish Free State, and are recoverable from the Imperial Exchequer.
Sir F. HALLIs it the intention of the Government to allow loans or outstand- 2071 ing amounts due from the Free State without any security whatever? Is no security going to be taken for any amounts that were advanced or lent to, or which are due from, the Free State?
§ Sir J. BAIRDIt is only a temporary arrangement during the transitional period. These sums are being collected purely temporarily, subject to a permanent arrangement being made.
Sir F. HALLIs it the intention of the Government to make a permanent arrangement with regard to these matters, and take proper security?
§ Sir J. BAIRDObviously, a permanent arrangement will have to be made when the transitional period has passed.
§ Sir M. DOCKRELLAre not the unfortunate Irish who have anything to lose the ultimate security?