asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether old age pensions are still being paid out of the Exchequer to the aged people of Ireland; if so, what is the average weekly sum so paid per head and the total amount per month; and whether, and when, the British taxpayers will be relieved of the burden?

No, Sir; old age pensions in Ireland are not now paid out of the British Exchequer. The second and third parts of the question do not, therefore, arise.