§ [SECOND READING.]
§ Order of the Day for the Second Reading read.
LORD DENMANMy Lords, in the year 1901 the late Sir Howard Vincent presided over a Committee appointed to inquire into various matters connected with the pay, allowances, and pensions of the Royal Irish Constabulary. The Committee came to the conclusion that the emoluments received by that force were in certain respects insufficient, and they recommended that in some cases the pay and allowances should be increased. Owing to the pressure of business in the House of Commons in recent years there has hitherto been no favourable opportunity of introducing a Bill on this subject. This being a money Bill I apprehend that your Lordships will not desire to amend it, at all events, not in any important respect; and bearing in mind the high character for efficiency and devotion to duty, frequently in very trying circumstances, borne by that splendid body of men, the Royal Irish Constabulary, I trust that your Lordships will give no grudging assent to the Second Reading of this Bill.
§ Moved, "That the Bill be now read 2a."—(Lord Denman.)
§ On Question, Bill read 2a. Committee negatived. Then (Standing Order No. XXXIX. having been suspended) Bill read 3a, and passed.