Note 262-1 — Chapter III

Many of the most competent thinkers have designated such emigration as the only remedy for the over-population of Ireland. Compare Torrens, The Budget, passim; J. S. Mill, Principles, II, ch. 10; Edinburg Rev., January, 1850. Lord Palmerston retained the wealthiest farmers on his estates who were intending to emigrate, by causing the poor ones to emigrate at his own expense. The independent emigration of the Irish at their own expense which has been going on for some years, might become an incalculable gain to the English nation. By the poor law, 4 and 5 William IV., c. 76, the English parishes are authorized, with the approval of the central poor board, to assist emigration to the extent of £10 per capita. Between 1849 and 1853, they assisted 1,826 poor persons on an average per annum, who received for that purpose £10,352. (Kries, Engl. Armenpflege, 1863, 30.)