CAPTAIN CRAIGTo ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether Sir Arthur Vicars' dismissal was decided upon before the 28th October, 1907, and that he was so informed in a letter bearing that date; and, if so, why a Vice-Regal Commission was subsequently appointed to inquire into a matter already judged and decided by the Irish Government.
(Answered by Mr. Birrell.) On 23rd October, 1907, Sir Arthur Vicars was informed that it had been decided to reconstitute the Office of Arms, and that this would involve his being relieved of the office of Ulster King of Arms. The Vice-Regal Commission was subsequently appointed in consequence of a memorial praying for an inquiry signed by certain Knights of the Order of St. Patrick.