§ MR. CHARLES CRAIG (Antrim, S.)I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland what were the facts and circumstances which, in his opinion, rendered the recent inquiry into the Belfast police system necessary; what has been the cost of that inquiry up to date; and did the Lord Mayor or High Sheriff of Belfast, the Commissioner of Police in Belfast, or any leading or representative person in or connected with that city ask for this inquiry.
MR. BRYCEThe Irish Government were led by several considerations, which could not be adequately set forth within the limits of an Answer, to the conclusion that a Commission of Inquiry into the organisation, discipline, and working of the Constabulary in Belfast was desirable. The circumstances which gave rise to the appointment of the Commission will best be shown by the report of the Commission when it appears. The cost of the inquiry has not yet been ascertained. Neither the Lord Mayor nor High Sheriff of Belfast asked for the inquiry.