§ MR. LEWISasked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Whether the Government has received a Memorial from certain loyal inhabitants of Derry relating to a projected procession or demonstration in that city on a grand scale fixed for the 17th instant; whether the Government has taken into consideration the facts and allegations stated in such Memorial, tending to show that such demonstration is intended to be a disloyal one, and is likely to lead to a breach of the peace; and, whether the Government will take steps to prevent the placing on the walls, or in the streets of Derry, of any arches or other erections on which dis- 734 loyal emblems and devices may be fixed or exhibited?
§ MR. SEXTONsaid, that, before the right hon. Gentleman answered the Question, he should like to ask whether this was not a demonstration in honour of St. Patrick, the patron Saint of Ireland; and whether the 17th of March, known as St. Patrick's Day, was not recognized in official circles as a national holiday?
§ MR. O'DONNELLalso wished to ask, whether the Catholic majority of the population of Derry did not carefully respect the annual demonstrations of their Protestant fellow-citizens?
§ MR. W. E. FORSTERSir, a Memorial has been received from the Apprentice Boys' Association, asking that the proposed celebration might be stopped. The matter will require serious consideration, and the Government are in consultation with the Mayor and magistrates of Derry to take such measures as may be necessary to prevent a breach of the peace.