§ MR. HEALYasked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Whether Major Blair's visit to the Crossmaglen prisoners in Chatham was made at his own expense; did he obtain leave of absence for the purpose; were the Government aware of his intention; and, has he made any report, recommenda- 1387 tion, or communication on the subject since his return?
§ MR. TREVELYANMajor Blair was on duty in London at the time of his visit. He did not obtain or require leave of absence to enable him to go to Chatham, nor did he take his ticket there at his own expense. The Governmeut were not aware of his intentions further than was involved in his getting the Secretary of State's authority to visit the prisoners. Any communication he subsequently made was of a confidential character.
§ MR. TREVELYANI have no doubt they were, as he was on duty in London at the time; but any further Question on the subject had better be addressed to the Home Secretary.