HC Deb 17 May 1888 vol 326 cc547-8
MR. SINCLAIR (, &c.) Falkirk

asked Mr. Solicitor General for Ireland, Whether it is the custom that when a Presbyterian desires to swear by the uplifted hand, in accordance with his legal rights, he is almost invariably asked in the Irish Courts of Law, "Do you believe that form of oath is binding on your conscience?" whether such a question is asked in virtue of any statutable requirement; and, if so, can he indicate where this statutable requirement is to be found; and, whether, as this inquiry is looked upon as an insult by many of those to whom it is asked, he will consider how best to put a stop to this or similar questions being asked in future?

THE SOLICITOR GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. MADDEN) (Dublin University)

I am making inquiry as to the existence of the custom referred to in the Question; but from the information I have it does not seem to universally prevail. If the hon. Gentleman will kindly postpone the Question until after Whitsuntide, I will be able to give him a complete answer.