§ MR. A. BLANE (Armagh, S.)asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Whether he can state the reason why District Inspector Leatham has been retained in Downpatrick, although he received notice of removal some time ago?
§ MR. JOHNSTON (Belfast, S.)Before the right hon. Gentleman answers that Question, will he allow me to ask if he is not aware that the conduct of District Inspector Leatham received the approbation of the magistrates of Ardglass and of the other districts in the locality; whether it was forwarded to the Inspector General of Police; and, whether there is any objection in the locality to Inspector Leatham except on the part of the priests; and, whether it was not taken absolutely on the ground that he was a Protestant?
§ THE CHIEF SECRETARY (Mr. JOHN MORLEY) (Newcastle-on-Tyne)I am not aware of any of the facts mentioned by the hon. Member for South Belfast (Mr. Johnston), and there is no reason why I should be, because nothing arises on this Question. District Inspector Leatham is at present in Downpatrick, but he is there simply on leave, which is granted to an officer when he is transferred; but his transfer is uncancelled.