HC Deb 11 March 1902 vol 104 cc1022-3
MR. POWER (Waterford, E.)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that in several parts of Ireland police are stationed at the doors and windows of rooms where branches of the United Irish League meet while such meetings are in progress; will he state the object of such action; and see that this conduct is not continued.

MR. ATKINSON

Where a branch of the United Irish League has, instigated acts of boycotting and intimidation, the police have instructions to attend in close proximity to the place of meeting with the twofold object of inspiring confidence in the victims of the intimidation, and of collecting evidence in the event of attempts being made to renew it. The police will continue to pursue this course of action where necessary.

MR. POWER

I am sorry to hear the right hon. Gentleman identify himself with that policy.

MR. T. M. HEALY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the first Lord of the Treasury, when Chief Secretary, in introducing his Coercion Bill, promised that there should be no interference with indoor meetings?

* MR. SPEAKER

Order, order!