§ MR. CLIVEI beg to ask the Chief Secretary for Ireland, Whether the Government is about to take any, and, if so, what steps for the discovery of the perpetrators of the recent murder in Donegal?
§ MR. J. LOWTHERSir, a proclamation has been issued by the Lord Lieutenant, offering a reward of £500 for information leading to the arrest of the murderers. This reward, I may observe, is not subject to the usual conditions involving the actual conviction of the accused parties, and the name of the person becoming entitled to the reward need not necessarily be disclosed, nor will he be required to give evidence except with his own consent. The Crown Solicitor has been sent to watch the magisterial inquiry on behalf of the Government, which inquiry is proceeding. In addition to this, the Deputy Inspector General of Constabulary has been sent to the scene of the outrage, with special authority to enable him to obtain information. Just before coming down to the House, I have received information that it is hoped that important evidence has already been obtained against certain persons who have been arrested.
MR. GLADSTONEWith a view to the fuller understanding of the answer just given, I should like to know, Whether the reward of £500 will be given upon evidence leading to arrest; or what measures—I have no doubt proper measures—will be take to ascertain that it is given upon an arrest made with just cause?
§ MR. J. LOWTHERThe Government have thought it expedient to retain in their hands discretion as to the payment or not of the reward in such a case.