HC Deb 14 July 1924 vol 176 cc14-5
37. Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

asked the Prime Minister when it is proposed to take the Financial Resolution on the guarantee of the Irish Free State land stock; and whether he will give an assurance that the matter will be dealt with before the House rises in August?

The PRIME MINISTER

The Government realise the importance of this matter; but it is not possible at the moment to give a definite undertaking that time will be found for the consideration of this Resolution before the Recess.

Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Did not the Lord Privy Seal, in an answer to a supplementary question the other day, say he would find time before the Recess?

The PRIME MINISTER

I should not like to pledge myself, but my impression is that he said he hoped to find time. I am sure he guarded himself, because I know perfectly well that at the time there was some doubt whether an opportunity could be found.

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

Is it not a fact that representations have been made by the Irish Free State Government that the completion of land purchase, urgently required in the West of Ireland, is being held up pending the final decision of His Majesty's Government in regard to the ratification of the guarantee?

The PRIME MINISTER

I have no information which would justify the statement that purchase is being held up, but I can give an unqualified assurance that this is going to be done.