HC Deb 03 November 1909 vol 12 cc1819-20
Mr. GWYNN

asked the Chief Secretary if his attention has been called to the formation of a Dublin squadron of the Legion of Frontiersmen; whether this body forms part of the Territorial Army; and whether it would be permissible to the people of county Galway to organise a local volunteer force?

Mr. BIRRELL

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War to a question on 5th April last, in which he stated that no sanction had been given or would be given to the establishment of the Legion of Frontiersmen as an armed force. This so-called Legion has its headquarters in London. It does not form part of the Territorial Army. The Dublin squadron has been in existence for some years. The Acts and Ordinances authorising the formation of volunteer forces do not apply to Ireland.

Mr. JOHN MOONEY

Has the attention of the right hon. Gentleman been called to the fact that this body have announced that they are to hold a public meeting, or parade, in the Dublin streets next Friday night, and will he instruct the Commissioner of Police to inquire into the licence of that body, or whether they have got any licence?

Mr. BIRRELL

The hon. Member may rest satisfied that that has not been overlooked.

Mr. MOONEY

May we take it for granted that there will be no partial or limited extension of the Territorial Act to Ireland?

Mr. BIRRELL

There is no intention of any sort or kind.