HC Deb 17 July 1888 vol 328 cc1534-5
THE LORD MAYOR OF DUBLIN (Mr. SEXTON) (Belfast, W.)

I wish to ask, Whether it is not understood that the Government have retained an army of 500 military and police for the purpose of aiding in the evictions on the Vandeleur Estate, County Clare; whether there are hundreds of persons to be thrown out of their homes; and whether desperate resistance is not expected?

THE CHIEF SECRETARY FOR IRELAND (Mr. A. J. BALFOUR) (Manchester, E.)

I believe that every effort has been made by agitators to stir up resistance; but I hope there, will be no resistance. However, the Government have taken steps to deal with such resistance should it be offered.

MR. SEXTON

On what grounds does the right hon. Gentleman say that every effort has been made by persons he calls agitators to stir up resistance?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

If the hon. Gentleman will put the Question down on the Paper I will answer it.

MR. J. O'CONNOR (Tipperary, S.)

Does the right hon. Gentleman include among these so-called agitators the clergymen of the parish, who advised their parishioners not to carry out any serious resistance?

MR. SPEAKER

Order, order!