MR. O'BRIENasked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Whether his attention has been called to a communication signed Michael Banican, Tallyard, Crossmaglen, county Armagh, published in the "Belfast Morning News" of Februay 23rd, to the effect that the writer was summoned out of his bed by the police at about twelve o'clock at night without being shown any warrant, and was taken to a police station about two miles away, where he was told that certain prisoners now in 1425 Armagh Gaol were going to swear against him, and was urged to save himself, and that he and his family would be well done for; and further, that "they tried to get him to make statements incriminating some of the prisoners in gaol from his neighbourhood on a charge of treason-felony;" and, whether the statement of Michael Banican has any foundation; and, if so, whether such practices on the part of the police have the approval of the Irish Government?
§ MR. TREVELYANSir, my attention has been called to this matter. I have considered a long Report upon it, and have reason to believe that the statements referred to are unfounded. I cannot say any more.
MR. O'BRIENasked, whether Banican had written to the right hon. Gentleman calling for an inquiry, and offering the sworn testimony of himself, his wife, and mother-in-law?
§ MR. TREVELYAN,in reply, said, he had received a letter to that effect.