§ MR. PARNELL (for Mr. BIGGAR)asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, If it is a fact that, on the promotion of 1361 Colonel Hillier to the post of Inspector General of Constabulary in Ireland, his place was filled by the selection of Colonel Bruce, who was placed over all the County Inspectors and two Assistant Inspectors General; and, if above statements are true as to fact, what special fitness does Colonel Bruce possess to justify the appointment?
§ SIR MICHAEL HICKS - BEACHSir, when the post of Deputy Inspector General of Constabulary became vacant by Colonel Hillier's promotion, Colonel Bruce was appointed to it in preference to the Assistant Inspectors General and all the County Inspectors. Besides distinguished service in the Army, Colonel Bruce held for some time the appointment of Inspector of Volunteers in the Lancashire District, having, I believe, about 10,000 men under his control in that capacity. He was subsequently appointed by the magistrates of Lancashire, Chief Constable of that important county; he held this office for nine years, having a very large police force under his command. At the expiration of that time, he was most strongly recommended by gentlemen holding high positions in Lancashire, who were thoroughly acquainted with the way in which he had performed his duties as Chief Constable; and it therefore appeared to the Irish Government that he was not only exceptionally qualified for the office of Deputy Inspector General of Irish Constabulary, but that they were specially fortunate in securing his services for the post.