§ MR. J. O'CONNOR (Wicklow, W.)I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that on Friday, the 15th instant, a girl named Metcalf under 16 years of age appeared before three Magistrates at Baltinglass, and swore a serious criminal charge against a farmer in the district; and if he can state on what grounds the Magistrates refused to grant criminal informations against the accused?
MR. J. MORLEYI understand that informations were refused by the Magistrates, in this case, on the ground that the girl's evidence was uncorroborated. However, I have referred the matter to the Law Officers for opinion as to whether any further action is called for.