IRISH LEGISLATION.

Te Aroha News, Volume VII, Issue 458, 29 March 1890, Page 5

IRISH LEGISLATION.

THE LAND PURCHASE BILL. London, March 25. Mr Balfour, Secretary for Ireland, introduced the Irish Land Purchase Bill in the House of Commons yesterday. He contended that it improved uponand was cheaper and more rapid of execution than Lord Ashbourne's Act. Purchase would be voluntary, and there was no risk to the British taxpayer, though British credit was utilised. The maximum advance would be twenty years’ rent less local rates paid by landlord. The total amount of advances v. ould be limited to thirty-three millions (representing capitalised values of numerous Imperial annual grants for Irish purposes), plus ten millions provided under Lord Ashbourne’s Act. The money would be. re-lent as it was repaid. Mr Gladstone admitted the courageous policy on Mr Balfour’s part, and said the proposed measure should have unbiassed discussion on his side of the House.

The Bill was read a first time, and the second reading is set down for April 15th. Mr Gladstone, speaking at a meeting of the National Liberal Club, said Mr Balfour’s Irish Land Purchase Bril was a bold bid for popularity. The measure involved large pecuniary liability to the British taxpayer. Mr Balfour, in speaking to the Bill, contended that the collateral securities provided rendered it impossible for the Treasury to suffer a sixpence loss. Congested districts would receive special contribution of one and a-half millions from the Church surplus. Landlords would receive 2 stock or consols. The Bill has made a favourable im-pres-ion in the House of Commons, except among the members of the Parnellite party'.

The Irish Land Purchase Bill creates a central land department. The payment of 4 per cent, for 49 years ensures a freehold. A special Board supervises and amalgamates holdings, and controls immigration and emigration, as well as seed supply and fisheries. Tenants pay heavier amounts for the first five years in order to form an insurance fund and erect labourers’ cottages. In other respects the Bill is similar to Lord Ashbourne’s Act. It is understood Mr Parnell and Mr Davitt are opposed to the measure.