HC Deb 01 March 1889 vol 333 cc706-7
MR. CHANCE (Kilkenny, S.)

asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether he has made any inquiries into the antecedents or character of the persons being Resident Magistrates, Crown Solicitors, and others intrusted with the administration of "The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 1887;" and whether, in view of recent events, he will cause such inquiries to be made?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I have instituted no such general inquiry into the private history of any servants of the Government as the hon. Member seems to desire. Nor can the hon. Member be serious in suggesting that I should do so. A particular charge against Captain Seagraveis, as the hon. Member is aware, being investigated at the present moment.

MR. CHANCE

I do not ask as to any particular inquiry, but whether any general inquiry has been made into the antecedents or character of these persons.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

My reply is that I have instituted no such inquiry.

MR. CHANCE

Has the right hon. Gentleman made no inquiry?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I thought I had answered that Question. I have made no inquiry.

MR. CHANCE

Does the right hon. Gentleman intend to make any inquiry?

No answer was returned.