HC Deb 20 April 1904 vol 133 c688
MR. WILLIAM ABRAHAM (Cork County, N. E.)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that Constable Dolan, of the Royal Irish Constabulary, has been soliciting subscriptions from traders and others in Fermoy for a testimonial to Sergeant Dalton recently transferred to Cork: whether this proceeding is in conformity with the police regulations; and if he would consider the desirability of forbidding police constables making public collections on behalf of testimonials for members of the force.

MR, WYNDHAM

The testimonial is the spontaneous act of the townspeople of Fermoy. Neither Constable Dolan nor any other member of the force has solicited subscriptions or otherwise assisted in the matter.

MR. WILLIAM ABRAHAM

This is a growing practice in Ireland. Will the right hon. Gentleman make further inquiries? It is really nothing less than levying blackmail?