§ MR. T. D. SULLIVANasked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, If his attention has been called to the following statement, published in the "Westmeath Examiner" of July 28th:—
On the occasion of the transfer of the prisoners arrested in connection with the Barba- 2081 villa murder from the gaol to the courthouse, a large number of police, in charge of Constable Whitfield, were sent from the barracks to the gaol, and, after a few minutes' delay there, came out with the fifteen prisoners, fourteen of whom were handcuffed in pairs, the exception being Hanlon, who turned informer, they were brought into the courthouse yard by the gate nearest the gaol, so that they had merely to cross the road. A great many of the prisoners' friends were present, and wished to see and speak to them. Crossing the street a man spoke to one of the the prisoners, and immediately Constable Whitfield struck the man several blows with his gun, nearly knocking him down. Inside the courthouse yard he treated a woman, a wife of one of the prisoners, in a similar manner. … The people did not in any way attempt to interfere with the police in the discharge of their duty;and, whether assaults were committed by Constable Whitfield, as alleged; and, if so, whether he will be called to account for them by the proper authorities?
§ MR. TREVELYANSir, I have inquired into this matter; and I am satisfied that the statement in The Westmeath Examiner is incorrect. The constable used no more force than was necessary to secure his prisoners in the midst of an excited and of a dangerous mob.
§ MR. T. D. SULLIVANI wish to ask the right hon. Gentleman, if he will direct a sworn inquiry into the circumstances of the case, as I am informed evidence can be given in support of this allegation?
§ MR. TREVELYANNo, Sir.