§ Mr. LONSDALEasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that in county Kerry the Estates Commissioners have reinstated a man named Walsh in his former holding for having taken which in succession to Walsh a man named Foran was shot dead; whether anyone was made amenable for the murder of Foran; whether Walsh has received a free grant of £150 to buy cattle, etc.; and whether he proposes to take any action in the matter?
§ Mr. BELLOCBefore the right hon. Gentleman replies, may I ask whether it is quite in order to insinuate a criminal charge against a private individual in a question?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member has taken me rather by surprise. Of course, speaking generally, it is a most improper thing for any Member to suggest in a question that an individual has been guilty of a criminal act, unless the Member putting the question has some very solid ground for doing so.
§ Mr. CHERRYThe Estates Commissioners have reinstated Thomas Walsh in his former holding, which has been for the past 17 years in the landlord's hands, and have sanctioned a free grant of £120 for the purchase of live stock. The murder referred to took place 21 years ago. Several persons were arrested in connection with it, but were discharged for want of evidence. Walsh was not accused or suspected of the crime. My right hon. Friend does not propose to take any action in the matter.