§ MR. J. F. O'BRIEN (Mayo, S.)asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether, in view of the fact that the allegations of certain prisoners were believed in Ireland—namely, that, on the part of the Government, Mr. Andrews, Governor of Downpatrick Prison, offered them their freedom if they would consent to give evidence before the Special Commission in favour of the Times—he would propose any means for investigating the truth of those allegations? The hon. Member further asked whether, in the interest of truth, the Chief Secretary would take steps that a searching inquiry should be made respecting the alleged attempts to tamper with the prisoner Tracy; and whether he would afford an opportunity for such inquiry by an open public investigation upon oath, since no kind of private investigation would give any satisfaction to the public?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURI presume Tracy will be called before the Commission by hon. Members opposite. I do not know whether, if he is called, he could be examined in respect of the allegations and suggestions of the hon. 531 Member. In any case, if the Governor used any means for inducing Tracy to give false evidence, either for the Times or other parties, he would be guilty of a criminal offence and could be proceeded against.
§ MR. SEXTON (Belfast, W.)Apart altogether from the question whether the Governor is guilty or not, is not the Prison Board going to make inquiry into the conduct of the Governor?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURI should think the Commissioners are perfectly ready to take action in case any specific accusation is brought to their notice.
§ MR. J. F. O'BRIENAre the Government content to let public judgment on these charges go against them by default?