§ MR. JOHN ELLIS (Nottinghamshire, Rushcliffe)asked the Solicitor General for Ireland whether, in the case of Andrew Cole, publican, who, on the 11th March, at Londonderry, was prosecuted by Head Constable Webster, R.I.C., under 6 and 7 William IV., for display- 834 ing "party emblems," when the offence consisted of defendant's wife and a number of girls waving pocket handkerchiefs when Father Stephens and other prisoners were being conveyed along the street, the prosecution was authorized by the Government?
§ THE SOLICITOR GENERAL FOR IRELAND (Mr. MADDEN,) University of DublinThe Constabulary report that the public-house named in the question had on several occasions been the scene of demonstrations in favour of the prisoners charged with the murder of District Inspector Martin while they were being conveyed to and from the railway station. The prosecution referred to in this question was instituted by the police on their own responsibility, and I may add that the magistrates made no rule in the case, being of opinion that the acts complained of did not come within the statute.
§ MR. J. ELLISDid not the head constable admit that there were more armed persons present than civilians? As the same thing was done in adjoining counties without a prosecution following, why was the distinction made?
§ MR. MADDENI am unable to say I have no information as to specific matters of fact.