HC Deb 05 February 1908 vol 183 cc871-2
MR. CHARLES CRAIG

On behalf of the hon. Member for East Down, I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland how many cases of boycotting and intimidation were brought to the notice of the police in Ireland during the past thirteen months; how many arrests were made; and how many convictions obtained against the perpetrators.

MR. BIRRELL

During the past thirteen months, the number of cases of serious boycotting reported in Ireland was fifteen, the number on 1st January, 1908, being nine. The number of cases of minor boycotting on 1st January was 116. The number for the entire period would be somewhat larger, but the precise figures have not been tabulated. The number of cases of intimidation reported during the period mentioned was 333, inclusive of 295 threatening letters or notices. Seven persons were arrested and one was summoned. Two of these persons were convicted, and in one case the proceedings are pending.

MR. CHARLES CRAIG

Will the right hon. Gentleman inform us how the police distinguish between serious and minor cases of boycotting?

MR. BIRRELL

That must be left to the discretion of the police, having regard to the circumstances of each case. They draw the line as best they can.