HC Deb 16 August 1909 vol 9 cc944-5
Mr. LONSDALE

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, whether Mr. Charles N. Clarke, of Graiguenoe Park, Thurles, is still severely boycotted and is guarded by 24 police, four of whom sleep in the house; whether he will state how long this boycott has continued; and when it as intended to proceed with the trial of the persons charged with conspiracy in connection with this boycott?

Mr. CULLINAN

Before this Question is answered I should like to ask your ruling, Mr. Speaker, and direct your attention to the question which suggests that a severe boycott exists. The question ends by asking "when it is intended to proceed with the trial of the persons charged with conspiracy in connection with this boycott." This clearly shows that the hon. Member is perfectly well aware that the case is sub judice, and I ask whether this action of the hon. Member in suggesting such a question to the prejudice of a fair trial of those prisoners is not only improper but highly reprehensible?

Mr. SPEAKER

There is nothing in this question I think which will affect the prisoners injuriously. I assume they are charged, and that the charge is conspiracy. If that is so to ask when the trial will take place I do not think will prejudice them at all.

Mr. CULLINAN

The imputation is distinctly made in the question that severe boycotting still exists, and I respectfully submit that that is to the prejudice of a fair trial.

Mr. SPEAKER

I do not think they will be prejudiced. At any rate I have no doubt the answer will be framed in such a way as not to injure the prisoners in any way.

Mr. T. W. RUSSELL

Mr. Clarke is still severely boycotted and is guarded by a party of seven police at Graiguenoe, four of whom sleep in the house. There is also a police hut containing ten men on the border of his property, primarily for his protection. The boycott has continued since the 18th November last. The Attorney-General intends to proceed with the trial of the persons charged with conspiracy in connection with this boycott at the earliest opportunity. An application will have to be made to change the venue of trial in the case of one of the accused, and this cannot be done until October.