§ Mr. M'ARTHURasked the Home Secretary whether, having regard to the renewal of sectarian disturbances in Liverpool and the danger of further outbreaks, he would explain why the appointment of a Commissioner to hold a sworn inquiry had been delayed, and state what action, if any, in the interests of peace and order, he proposed to take?
§ Mr. GLADSTONEThe reason for the delay is twofold: First, that the city council were unable to send a final reply for a month to my letter of September 6th asking certain necessary questions as to the arrangements for the inquiry; and secondly, that on October 6th they passed a fresh resolution asking that the inquiry should be held only if the evidence could be taken on oath. To take the evidence 456 on oath will require legislation, and I am considering whether a short Bill for that purpose can be introduced.