HC Deb 27 April 1893 vol 11 cc1306-7
MR. SEXTON

I beg to ask the right hon. Gentleman the Home Secretary whether it is true, as reported, that a man, who was observed to be going up the steps to Downing Street at 12 o'clock last night, showing that the prisoner had followed, turned round when challenged by a policeman and discharged a revolver; and that, when taken to the station, there was found on the man a record of the Prime Minister's recent movements and an entry stating as follows:— The Second Reading of the Irish Home Rule Bill passed by Gladstone's Government by their full majority, 43—including that cur Saunders. All this talking appears not to have made a single convert. However, it is now time for action. What was the use of the Ulstermen howling and calling him a traitor? That won't upset the Bill. There is such a thing as wilful murder, and yet it might be simply and purely justifiable homicide. Now prove it. What said Sir Henry James, one of the greatest lawyers in the land, and yet one of the kindest; of men? See Gladstone's speech last night"?

MR. ASQUITH

This is a serious matter, and it is now the subject of police inquiry and judicial investigation. I must, therefore, ask my hon. Friend to excuse my postponing answering the question or entering into the circumstances of this matter to-day.