MR. JUSTIN HUNTLY M'CARTHYasked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Whether the attention of the Government has been called to the interference of Mr. Hynds, rate collector, in the recent Poor Law election, in the Armagh Division of Ath- 17 lone; whether it is usual for officials to interfere in a Poor Law election as he did; and, whether any rule exists governing the conduct of the officials in such circumstances; and, if not, whether the Government will frame such a rule?
§ MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANI understand that two charges have been made against Mr. IIynds—(1) that he nominated a candidate at this Poor Law election, and (2) that he used intimidation and undue influence in connection with it. As regards the first charge, the Local Government Board are satisfied with Mr. Hynds's explanation of his reason for seeking to have a person nominated. As regards the second charge, if the person who brings it will adduce any particular cases in support of it, which he has not done hitherto, it may become necessary to make further inquiry.