60. Mr. G. MURRAYasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is included in the term, pending trans. actions, for payment of purchase money under the Wyndham Irish Land Purchase Act; whether this includes all purchase moneys upon which interest is being paid at present; if not, what claims are excluded; and whether he will give an assurance on behalf of His Majesty's Government that all claims already recognised by payment of interest will in due course be liquidated?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODThe term "pending transaction" is well understood. What is contemplated is that 338 such transactions should be proceeded with in the same way as if there had been no change of Government. Interest on purchase money may be payable in the case of a purchase agreement which has not been finally sanctioned, and until final sanction has been given in accordance with the usual procedure it cannot be assumed that the purchase money mentioned in such agreement will be payable.
Mr. MURRAYIs the House to understand that the Government can give no guarantee that the whole of the purchase money upon which interest has been paid will be liquidated?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI have tried to answer the hon. Member's question. If he will read the answer, which has been prepared by the proper authorities, he will see that it covers the case he raises in his supplementary.
§ Lieut.-Colonel ASHLEYCan the right hon. Gentleman state whether the changed status of Southern Ireland has in any way affected the liability of the British Government which they undertook in this matter?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI must have notice of that question.