HC Deb 06 March 1905 vol 142 cc425-6
MR. JOHN REDMOND

I beg to ask the First Lord of the Treasury whether, before the Cabinet first considered Sir Antony MacDonnell's action in aiding Lord Dunraven to draft the programme of the Reform Association and decided to censure him, Sir Antony MacDonnell was invited to submit any explanation of his action to the Government; whether such explanation was before the Cabinet in writing; and, if not, how it was communicated to the Cabinet.

MR. JOHN REDMOND

I beg also to ask the First Lord of the Treasury whether, after he had been censured by the Cabinet, Sir Antony MacDonnell laid before the Government any explanation in defence of his action; whether such explanation was in writing; and was Sir Antony MacDonnell's defence considered by the Cabinet before they authorised the publication of the censure passed on Sir Antony MacDonnell in the Answer of the Chief Secretary on February 16th† last.

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

With regard to these Questions, I have to say I do not think anything can be added with advantage to the Answer which was given a week ago by my right hon. friend the Chief Secretary.

MR. JOHN REDMOND

In view of the fact that Sir Antony MacDonnell has been publicly censured, does the right hon. Gentleman not think it would be to the advantage of the public, and common justice to the gentleman concerned, that his explanation in defence of his conduct should also be made public?

MR. A. J. BALFOUR

I believe the case is fully before the House and the country, and I do not think anything can be added.

MR. JOHN REDMOND

Sir Antony Macdonnell's defence is not.