§ MR. M'CARTAN (Down, S.)I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland on what date the prisoner M'Caffrey, who was removed to London to give evidence before the Special Commission, was brought back to Downpatrick Convict Prison; for what period he was detained in London; and whether he was called as a witness before the Commission; whether he has been kept in solitary confinement, or otherwise punished, and for what periods, since his return; and if he can state the reason for his punishment, and at whose instance he was brought to London?
§ THE CHIEF SECRETARY FOR IRELAND (Mr. A. J. BALFOUR,) Manchester, E.The General Prisons Board report that the convict mentioned was removed to London, not to give evidence before the Special Commission, but as a witness in the case of "The Queen v. Molloy." In connection with that case he was in London for one period of 19 days ending March 20, 1889, and a second period of nine days. Since his return to Ireland a year ago he has been punished for various breaches of prison discipline and rule on five occasions. His attendance in London was at the instance of the solicitors for the prosecution.
§ MR. M'CARTANFor what period was he punished?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURThe Prisons Board have not sent me full particulars; but if the hon. Gentleman will put down a further question I shall be happy to obtain them.