HC Deb 03 December 1888 vol 331 cc845-6
MR. T. M. HEALY (Longford, N.)

asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, How long has Captain Plunkett, R.M., been absent from his duty in Ireland; does his pay continue during his absence; whether Captain Plunkett has made arrangements (similar to those made by other persons subpænaed by The Times for ascertaining the day upon which he is likely to be examined; and, will he also be instructed to make endeavours, as other witnesses have done, to hasten his examination, with a view to quitting London?

THE SOLICITOR GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. MADDEN)(who replied) said (Dublin University)

With the exception of a short interval, when Captain Plunkett was back at his station in Ireland, Captain Plunkett has been in London on subpoena from The Times since about October 22 last. His pay continues during his absence. As to the remainder of the Question, it is unnecessary to give Captain Plunkett any instructions, as he is most anxious to be able to leave London and return to his duty, and remains only in obedience to his subpoena, as he is bound to do. The time for his examination is a matter over which he has no control.

MR. T. M. HEALY

asked, whether the attention of the hon. and learned Gentleman bad been called to the statement made by the Inspector General of Constabulary that Captain Plunkett's absence from his duties was the cause of great embarrassment?

MR. MADDEN

said, he was not aware of the fact; but this embarrassment, if it existed, was caused by Captain Plunkett's obedience to the subpoena, which the hon. and learned Gentleman knew could not be disregarded.

MR. T. M. HEALY

asked, whether, having regard to the statement of the Inspector General, the hon. and learned Gentleman would not consult with the Attorney General for England with a view to arrangements being made, as in the case of other witnesses, for an early examination of this gentleman?

MR. MADDEN

I consider it would be no part of my duty to do that.

MR. T. M. HEALY

Then I will put the Question myself to the Attorney General.

MR. LANE (Cork Co., E.)

asked, who was performing Captain Plunkett's duties in his absence—was it Captain Caddell?

MR. MADDEN

said, he was not aware.