§ MR. JOHNSTON (Belfast, W.)In the absence of the hon. and gallant Member for East Antrim (Captain M'Calmont), I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland what provision it is intended to take regarding the Royal Irish Constabulary Force Fund in the Bill for the future Government of Ireland?
MR. J. MORLEYI have already explained, in answer to a question by the hon. Member for West Kerry, that the Constabulary Force Fund consists of two branches—the reward branch and the benefit branch. Into the reward branch are paid portions of fines awarded by magistrates, or which are otherwise payable to the Constabulary, and from this branch rewards to members of the Force are paid. The disposal of such fines will no doubt in the circumstances mentioned be a matter for the Irish Government. Respecting, however, the benefit branch of the fund, it has been decided that it 494 shall not be wound up, but shall continue to exist until all its obligations to the families of present members of the fund (whether serving on pay or on pension) shall be, fulfilled; and to that end the funds of the benefit branch (including the sum of £150,000 voted by Parliament in 1890–91) and its actuarial concerns have been placed under the management of the National Debt Commissioners.
§ MR. SEXTON (Kerry, N.)I presume that in the event of the disbandment of the Force the balance of the fund would be distributed.
MR. J. MORLEYWhatever may happen, the benefit branch of the fund will continue to exist on the present conditions until all obligations in connection with it shall have been fulfilled.
§ MR. JOHNSTONWill there be any Imperial guarantee for its security?