§ Mr. LARDNERasked the Chief Secretary whether the scheme of redistribution of work in the Land Registry, Ireland, proposed some time ago for the equalising of delay all round in dealing with cases, has been put into operation; and, if so, with what result; whether he is aware that the delays complained of in all quarters up to the present time are attributable to the fact that the staff of this office has not been strengthened in proportion to its daily growing requirements; and will he now state what additions have been made to the staff within the past twelve months?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe work of the Land Registry Office has been distributed among the staff so as to secure the greatest expedition possible. Some arrear of work still exists, but, with the increased staff, it is being gradually cleared off. Twenty-five additional clerks have been appointed within the past twelve months. It is not possible, owing to the limited office accommodation, to make any further additions to the staff at present, but new and larger offices are being built, and it is hoped they will be available next year.