§ MR. SEXTONMay I ask whether, in view of the extensive arrangements which have been made for the meeting at New Tipperary next Sunday, when many public men will be present, and excursion trains run, the Government intend to exercise their powers to suppress the meeting? I think it would probably be inconvenient, if not dangerous, to allow the matter to remain as it is.
§ MR. MADDENThe Chief Secretary, in answering the question yesterday, gave all possible information on the subject, namely, that a meeting of a certain character could not be allowed. I understand that at the time my right hon. Friend gave that answer no formal announcement had been made as to the character of the meeting. The authorities must hold themselves free to act in the matter as they think best for the preservation of the peace of the locality.
§ MR. SEXTONThe House will agree that an intolerable situation is created. Everybody knows what has been arranged. Four Members of Parliament intend to address an open-air meeting of their constituents. I ask the right hon. and learned Gentleman to define what kind of meeting is to be prevented and what kind allowed.
§ MR. MADDENI would suggest that the hon. Gentleman should repeat the question on the Adjournment, when the Chief Secretary for Ireland will be in his place.
§ MR. SEXTONVery well.
§ * MR. C. GRAHAMI wish to ask whether, if the people insist on assembling, force will be used to suppress the meeting; and, if so, whether that pillar of our civilisation, the Hotchkiss gun, will de employed?
§ * MR. SPEAKEROrder, order!