HC Deb 02 March 1903 vol 118 cc1106-7
MR. O'MARA (Kilkenny, S.)

I beg to ask the Postmaster General as representing the Secretary of State for the Colonies, whether the 17th March has been declared a public holiday in British Colonies; and, if so, will he state in what Colonies and in what years.

THE POSTMASTER GENERAL (Mr. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAIN,, for Mr. J. CHAMBERLAIN) Worcestershire, E.

The information possessed by the Colonial Office is not sufficient to enable me to answer the Question of the hon. Member.

CAPTAIN DONELAN (Cork, Co., E)

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that numerous Irish Premiers in the Colonies have invariably declared the 17th March as a public holiday?

MR. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAIN

I am not aware of that.

MR. WILLIAM REDMOND (Clare, E.)

Will the right hon. Gentleman make inquiries into this matter?

MR. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAIN

Yes. I have only just received the answer from the Colonial Office. I will look into the matter and communicate with the hon. Member.