HC Deb 31 July 1899 vol 75 c849
MR. DAVITT

I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury, as representing the Postmaster-General, whether any, and, if so, what redress is left to Mr. William O'Brien in the case of the non-transmission of an important telegram from Westport to Dublin to the solicitor engaged in the case of M'Hale versus Sergeant Sullivan, of the Royal Irish Constabulary; and whether, in view of the fact that no record of the sending of this message is to be found in the telegraph office in Dublin, he can see his way to institute a sworn investigation in connection with this matter.

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY (Mr. HANBURY,) Preston

All that can be done is to refund to Mr. O'Brien the amount paid for the transmission of the telegram in question. The Postmaster-General has already made full inquiry in the matter. He has no power to institute a sworn investigation. If, however, Mr. O'Brien has grounds for suspecting any malpractices, and will furnish any evidence in his possession, the matter shall be considered further.

CAPTAIN DONELAN

Is the objection to holding an inquiry to be found in the danger of disclosures?

MR. HANBURY

No, Sir. The Postmaster-General has no power to hold a sworn investigation.