HC Deb 27 March 1882 vol 268 cc24-5
MR. R. POWER

asked Mr. Attorney General for Ireland, If it is true that Michael Veal, at present a prisoner in Naas Gaol under the Coercion Act, has been prohibited receiving certain books, among others "The Life and Speeches of Daniel O'Connell" and Mr. A. M. Sullivan's "Story of Ireland;" and, if he will give instructions that these books, which are the private property of Mr. Veal, may be given to him?

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. W. M. JOHNSON)

I am informed, Sir, that the Governor of the prison detained two volumes of the select speeches of O'Connell, considering them "political." I do not myself see why Mr. Veal should not have these books, and will inquire about it. No other books were detained, so far as I am informed.

MR. HEALY

What about the other book?

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. W. M. JOHNSON)

No other books were detained at all.

MR. R. POWER

In consequence of that answer, may I ask the Prime Minister, If he will allow, or give instructions, that the Governor will allow Mr. O'Connell's speeches to be given to Mr. Michael Veal, remembering the fact that the Prime Minister declared on the 8th of last October— That O'Connell professed his unconditional and unswerving loyalty to the Crown of England; O'Connell desired— Friendly relations with the people of this country." "Friendship with England was the motto of O'Connell." "O'Connell on every occasion declared his respect for property.

MR. GLADSTONE

I should not like to give a positive pledge in regard to a matter of prison regulation without first having an opportunity of making inquiry. I may state, however, that there are many of O'Connell's speeches which I should very strongly recommend to the attention of hon. Gentlemen opposite from Ireland.